West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has urged the police to enhance security arrangements in the state after her claim on Friday that some miscreants are planning to create unrest during the upcoming Kali Puja, Diwali, and Chaat Puja celebrations.
Although she chose not to disclose the identities of those involved, she stressed the importance of strengthening intelligence efforts and increasing the presence of the Special Task Force (STF). "We must ensure that no one exploits the festive atmosphere to create unrest," Banerjee told the news agency PTI.
Mamata Banerjee Affirms To Maintain Communal Harmony
Speaking to senior officials while assessing the situation in seven districts impacted by Cyclone Dana, she reaffirmed her commitment to maintaining communal harmony. "I do not want communal tension in Bengal. The police will take strict action against any provocateurs, but I urge the media not to sensationalise this. Please avoid provoking the public, " she said.
In both Odisha and West Bengal, flights, trains, and buses quickly resumed services after the storm passed on Friday, as officials worked to evaluate and address disruptions caused by the cyclone, which made landfall between Dhamra and Bhitarkanika shortly after midnight.
Banerjee confirmed one death related to Cyclone Dana in Bengal and reported that approximately 2.16 lakh people were evacuated from low-lying areas. After spending the night there monitoring the situation, Banerjee held a review meeting at the state secretariat and directed the officials to ensure that relief materials reached all those affected by the cyclone.
"Only one person died in this natural disaster. The man died at his residence at Patharpratima block in South 24 Parganas while conducting some cable-related work. It is quite unfortunate. The post-mortem examination will give us a clear picture. If required, we (the state government) will help the family," Banerjee said, according to Hindustan Times.