Asansol-Raniganj limps back to normalcy under police vigil

Kolkata: Asansol and Raniganj that reeled under repeated clashes triggered by Ram Navami processions last Sunday are gradually limping back to normalcy.

Amidst the route march of the cops in different parts of the area, people are getting back to their work. The police are continuing with their route march to ensure that no fresh trouble breaks out in the area.

Buses have started operating from the central bus stand in Asansol. Prohibitory orders under Section 144 CrPC were clamped in the Asansol-Raniganj area and internet services were suspended on Wednesday.

Locals from all communities joined hands to ensure that no fresh trouble breaks out. Several markets and shops opened on Friday and people were found moving around freely.

Paban Maity, a local resident, said common people do not want tension. People have started coming out to lead a normal life realising that the police have successfully brought the situation under control.

According to a senior cop, the strict vigil in and around the area is continuing as it would take some time to bring the situation completely under control. A large section of local residents has also supported the police by taking a tough stand against all odds and decided to bring back normalcy as early as possible without paying any heed to rumours.

It may be mentioned that senior police officers have also come up with their findings that "outsiders" had mainly instigated the trouble and necessary steps have been taken including increased vigilance in the bordering areas with a purpose to prevent unrest in different parts of Bengal.

The senior IPS officers, who were sent to bring the situation under control, are taking all the necessary measures following directions of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during a meeting after her return from Delhi with top officials including Chief Secretary Malay De, Home Secretary Atri Bhattacharya and Director General of Police Surajit Kar Purkayastha.

Steps have been taken so that no fresh trouble takes place during Hanuman Jayanti on Saturday. Sources said suspension of internet services in the area would continue till April 4.

However, the attempt to get political mileage out of the incident continues. The BJP has decided to send a four-member central team to Asansol and Raniganj, headed by Shahnawaz Hussain, who would be visiting the place on Sunday.

Criticising the move of the BJP to send a central team in Asansol and Raniganj when the situation is gradually becoming normal, state Parliamentary Affairs minister Partha Chatterjee said: "Many have come to the state so far and left as well. People feel disturbed due to such activities."

He once again reiterated that the state government has taken all the necessary measures to bring the situation under control.

Bengal Governor Keshari Nath Tripathi is expected to visit Asansol and Raniganj on Saturday to take stock of the situation.