A violent mob of more than 2,000 Muslims attacked Hindus in eastern India over a Facebook post they deemed objectionable. The post concerned a religious site.
The mob set up roadblocks, set shops on fire, ransacked houses and was accused of rape, prompting the government to call in 300 paramilitary personnel to respond to the riots.
A senior politician from the Hindu-affiliated ruling party, the BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party), lashed out at police for failing to control the situation, which occurred in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district.
“Bombs went off at many places and information of Hindu sisters and daughters being raped has also been received. Local workers (of the BJP) have said many facilities, including five BJP offices, were set on fire,” said Kailash Vijayvargiya, BJP general secretary for the region.
Authorities arrested a 17-year old student who was responsible for the Facebook post.
Via Clarion