Kolkata: In a disturbing incident of mob violence in West Bengal, a man was beaten to death by a group of locals in Bhangar, South 24 Parganas, on suspicion of theft. The attack occurred in the early hours of Sunday near a police station.The incident follows a directive from the Mamata Banerjee government to the police to enhance vigilance against mob violence, which had increased recently after a couple was attacked.
The victim, identified as Azgar Mollah from Phoolbari, was assaulted by a group of residents who suspected him of theft. Despite the attack happening close to a police station, it is alleged that the police did not promptly attend to the scene. Azgar's body was reportedly left on the road for an extended period until villagers discovered it. Local residents claimed that theft incidents have risen in the area, and Azgar was suspected of being involved. He was reportedly tied up and beaten by the locals. Azgar fell unconscious during the attack and later died from his injuries.
Sheikh Rafiqul Hasan, a local resident, stated, “Theft has been a persistent issue here. Although there is a night guard, incidents of theft increase once they leave. Today, one individual was caught, tied up, and beaten by the locals. He lost consciousness and later died from his injuries.” Azgar’s relatives, who arrived after the incident, expressed ignorance about the cause of the attack.
This violent incident is part of a troubling trend in West Bengal, where mob violence has surged recently. In the last week of June, the state witnessed 12 cases of mob violence, including a notable case in Uttar Dinajpur district that led to significant political controversy. On June 28, a couple was brutally beaten by local Trinamool Congress leader Tajmul Haque, known as JCB, who is alleged to have connections with MLA Hamidul Rahaman. The assault was captured on video and went viral, leading to Haque's arrest.
In response to the increasing violence, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee instructed state police on July 2 to heighten vigilance and take strict action against perpetrators of mob violence. The state government has also announced financial aid of Rs 2 lakh each to the families of victims and promised employment as home guards for the next of kin.
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