Tensions erupted in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district over the weekend after an Islamophobic signboard was displayed at a local Durga Puja pandal, sparking communal violence.

According to a Kashmir Media Service report on Tuesday, the offensive message on the signboard, which was directed at Islam, led to widespread outrage and violence, as clashes broke out between groups from different communities.

In response to the escalating unrest, the district administration imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and suspended internet services to prevent the spread of misinformation. Despite these measures, the situation deteriorated, with stone-pelting and vandalism reported from both sides.

Police were deployed to restore order, and tensions spread to nearby areas, causing additional property damage, including the ransacking of shops and houses, as well as the damage to a police vehicle.

At least 15 Muslims were injured, with three critically hurt in the clashes. Local authorities confirmed that 17 individuals had been arrested in connection with the violence.