On Thursday, April 2, 2026, the Election Commission of India handed over the investigation into the Malda violence case in West Bengal to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), following directions from the Supreme Court. The move comes after a shocking incident in which seven judicial officers were gheraoed and held hostage by a mob for several hours.

The incident took place on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, in the Kaliachak area of Malda district, where judicial officers deployed for electoral duties were surrounded while carrying out Special Intensive Revision (SIR) work related to electoral rolls. The situation unfolded amid protests by locals over the deletion of names from voter lists. Demonstrations began outside a Block Development Office and escalated into a large gathering that eventually encircled the officials, with road blockades reported in multiple areas, disrupting normal life.

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Taking serious note of the incident, the Supreme Court expressed strong displeasure and described West Bengal as “the most politically polarised state.” The Court further directed, “We also direct ECI to entrust the enquiry/investigation into yesterday's incident to either the CBI or NIA.”

Following this directive, the Election Commission formally wrote to the NIA, requesting a detailed investigation. “I am directed to request that the necessary inquiry/investigation into the matter be conducted, and a preliminary inquiry report be submitted directly to the Hon'ble Court as per the above directions,” the Commission stated.

According to officials, the seven judicial officers, including three women, were held inside the Block Development Office premises for several hours before being rescued late at night by police and Central Armed Police Forces. The Supreme Court termed the incident a “deliberate and calculated” attempt to obstruct officials from performing their duties and ordered the deployment of central forces to ensure their safety.

An NIA team is expected to reach West Bengal on April 3, 2026, to begin its probe. The agency will visit the site, gather evidence, and coordinate with local police. A preliminary report is expected to be submitted to the Court on April 6, 2026. Investigators will examine whether the violence was spontaneous or part of a larger organised conspiracy.

Meanwhile, the investigation by West Bengal Police has led to key arrests. Authorities have identified advocate Mofakkarul Islam as an alleged mastermind behind the gherao. He was arrested at Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri on Friday April 3, 2026 while reportedly attempting to board a flight. Police officials confirmed that multiple cases have been registered against him at the Kaliachak police station.

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In response to the incident, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar held a high-level virtual review meeting with senior state officials, including the Chief Electoral Officer, Director General of Police, and district authorities. During the meeting, officials were questioned over delays in responding to the crisis and were directed to ensure swift action against those responsible.

The District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police of Malda were also reprimanded for their delayed response. The Election Commission warned that any recurrence of such incidents would invite strict action and stressed the need for immediate intervention in similar situations.

The situation in Malda remained tense for several hours after the incident, with large crowds blocking key access points. Security has since been tightened across the region, with additional forces deployed to maintain law and order and prevent further unrest.

Officials stated that the NIA’s investigation will focus on identifying any organised elements behind the violence and ensuring accountability. Further action will depend on the findings of the preliminary enquiry.

[VP]

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