Sandeshkhali Violence: Bengal CM Mamata Blames 'RSS Outsiders' For Unrest

Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee has blamed the RSS for instigating violence in Sandeshkhali.

Screenshot from a video showing protesting locals in Sandeshkhali (left); CM Mamata Banerjee ( Image Source :ABP Ananda/PTI )

Reacting to the violence in Bengal's Sandeshkhali, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday hit out at the BJP's ideological parent Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. Addressing the West Bengal Assembly, she said: "This [violence] is not new. There is a branch of RSS in Sandeshkhali. Bringing outsiders is causing unrest. We are taking action; the police are going door to door to provide assistance."

Speaking about the suspects alleged to be involved in the violence, CM Mamata said: "I have not condoned any injustice in my life. I am the one who sent the state administration there. I sent the commission there. So far, 17 people have been arrested. Those who are taking pictures wearing masks have also been caught. They are BJP workers." 

Mamata also claimed that Sandeshkhali was disturbed so that people do not vote before the elections. "Their democratic rights are being snatched," she said. "Many people are saying certain things without knowing the truth. An area has been disturbed by people from outside. Sheikh Shahjahan was targeted first. The ED came in targeting him first. After that, the tribal minorities were pitted against one another. There may be people's anger and protest. The administration and the women police's teams are there. The government will definitely take action... But first, we need to know what happened."

So far, 17 people, including  BJP leaders and workers,  have been arrested in connection to the violence in Sandeshkhali.

The protesters in Sandeshkhali are demanding action against TMC leader Sheikh Shajahan and his aides. Women from Sandeshkhali have accused Shahjahan of usurping land and sexually harassing them. Shajahan is untraceable at present. He is wanted in connection with a mob attack on Enforcement Directorate officers during a raid at his residence in the alleged Bengal ration scam.

(With inputs from Surjeet Mitra and ABP Ananda.)