“No one will be worse than me,” CM Shubhendu warns rioters

After taking oath as the Chief Minister of West Bengal, Suvendu Adhikari made several quick administrative decisions, including a ban on offering namaz and other religious prayers on public roads. The move sparked tension in different parts of the state during the first Friday prayers after the new government took charge. Police forces attempted to remove worshippers gathered on roads, which later led to clashes and incidents of stone-pelting in some areas. The situation turned violent in the Circus Park area, where local residents allegedly attacked police personnel and government officials during an anti-encroachment operation. Several vehicles were damaged, and multiple officials suffered injuries in the unrest. Reacting strongly to the violence, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari warned that attacks on police and destruction of public property would not be tolerated under his administration. He stated that strict legal action would be taken against anyone involved in such incidents. According to the Chief Minister, six police officers and two CRPF personnel were injured during the clashes. He confirmed that around 40 people had been arrested so far and said the investigation was being closely monitored by the Police Commissioner. Adhikari emphasized that his government would act firmly against what he described as “anti-social” and “anti-national” activities. He also made it clear that the administration would not allow lawlessness or violent protests to continue in the state. While addressing the media, Suvendu Adhikari praised the police and central security forces for showing restraint despite facing provocation from the crowd. Taking a dig at the previous All India Trinamool Congress government led by Mamata Banerjee, he remarked that the era of ministers sitting comfortably in air-conditioned rooms while police officers were attacked on the streets was over. He warned that anyone expecting the police to operate with restrictions would be mistaken. The Chief Minister further clarified that political and religious organizations would still be allowed to organize events after informing the police and obtaining permission. However, he said that violent demonstrations, inflammatory slogans, and stone-pelting would not be accepted. Drawing a comparison with Jammu and Kashmir, Adhikari claimed that such incidents had reduced there and expressed confidence that similar law and order would soon be established in West Bengal as well. The developments have intensified the political atmosphere in the state, with the opposition targeting the new government over its strict measures while supporters argue that the administration is trying to restore order and discipline.