West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh pledges unrestricted police powers to restore law and order

On July 9, 2024, West Bengal minister Dilip Ghosh said the state will take any step needed to re‑establish "law‑and‑order" and that police will have "complete freedom" to act. He referenced recent unrest at a rally of former chief minister Mamata Banerjee and the Baruaipur police encounter in which a suspect in a child rape‑murder case was killed, stating that the government will not hesitate to use force when required. Ghosh warned that anyone obstructing the effort would be dealt with, recalling his earlier remark that non‑cooperating officials would be hit with stones.

Opposition figure Riju Dutta criticised the minister’s language and highlighted additional violent incidents in the state, including the killing of a 17‑year‑old after a football match. He called for a balanced approach that ensures security while continuing development projects. The government maintains that restoring law and order is a top priority for West Bengal.