CPI-M calls for deploying army, paramilitary in Bengal's troubled areas

The CPI-M on Wednesday demanded deployment of para-military forces in the tense areas like Asansol in West Bengal and urged the Mamata Banerjee government to take the initiative for requisitioning the army's services in view of the unrest related to Ram Navami processions.

Expressing "deep concern" over the armed processions in various parts of the state around Ram Navami, Communist Party of India-Marxist State Secretary Surjya Kanta Mishra said three lives have been lost, while the property of many poor and middle classes people have been damaged.

"Even police personnel have come under attack. The Hindutva forces have been inciting people and carrying out attacks. People are terrorised."

Refering to the violence in Asansol of Paschim Bardhaman district, Mishra alleged in a statement that the state administration has "totally failed" to control the situation.

"In such a scenario, the CPI-M demands deployment of para-military forces in troubled areas like Asansol. If need be, the state government should take the initiative for army deployment."

--IANS

ssp/vd