Uproar over Malda Hostage Crisis: Judicial Officers Held by Villagers

Uttar Pradesh Panchayati Raj Minister OP Rajbhar has sharply criticized the recent hostage situation in Malda, West Bengal, where seven judicial officers were detained by villagers. He likened the conditions in West Bengal to the 'hooliganism' seen during the Samajwadi Party's tenure in Uttar Pradesh.

The incident in Malda, which involved the holding of three female judicial officers, triggered widespread unrest. Protests escalated due to mass deletions from the electoral rolls, part of the ongoing Special Intensive Revision process, leading to road blockades across multiple constituencies.

The Supreme Court, expressing deep concern, labeled the incident a blatant attempt to disrupt justice. Chief Justice of India Surya Kant criticized state authorities for inadequate protection of the officers. Show-cause notices have been issued, and the Election Commission has been tasked with deploying central forces for security. Meanwhile, police have made arrests to control the situation.