Hindus flee Murshidabad after targeted attack by Muslim mobs, brings back memories of exodus of 80000 victims after West Bengal post-poll violence

Hindu Families Flee Murshidabad After Targeted Violence, Echoing Past Trauma of Post-Poll Exodus

Dozens of Hindu families in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district have fled their homes following a brutal attack by a Muslim mob, reigniting painful memories of the mass exodus that displaced over 80,000 Hindus after the 2021 post-election violence.

The latest incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday when a mob allegedly vandalized homes, set shops ablaze, and assaulted residents in a predominantly Hindu neighborhood. Eyewitnesses claim the violence erupted after a dispute during a religious procession, escalating into targeted attacks on Hindu households.

Local resident Priya Mondal (name changed for safety) recounted the horror: “They came with sticks, stones, and petrol bombs. We had to flee in the middle of the night—women, children, and elderly—with nothing but the clothes we were wearing.”

Many victims have taken shelter in nearby villages or relief camps, fearing further reprisals if they return. Community leaders allege police inaction, claiming officers arrived hours after the violence began.

The attack has drawn parallels to the 2021 post-election violence, where Hindu families across West Bengal were allegedly targeted, leading to one of the largest internal displacements in recent state history. A fact-finding report by civil rights groups had documented over 80,000 Hindus forced to flee their homes, many of whom are still unable to return.

Political analysts suggest rising polarization ahead of upcoming panchayat elections may be fueling tensions. While state officials have promised an investigation, opposition leaders accuse the ruling party of turning a blind eye to communal violence.

Human rights organizations have called for immediate intervention to protect vulnerable families. Meanwhile, displaced victims plead for security and rehabilitation.

“We just want to live without fear,” said an elderly survivor now sheltering in a temporary camp. “Is that too much to ask?”

As tensions simmer, the incident serves as a grim reminder of West Bengal’s fragile communal harmony—and the urgent need for accountability.