In 1976, the Hindu community in Sambhal were targeted after false rumours of their involvement in the murder of a Muslim cleric killed by one his coreligionist.
The MHA is said to have directed the NIA to take over the probe after it received a report from the state government. Also, Suvendu Adhikari, Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly had asked the MHA to deploy central paramilitary forces in the violence-hit parts of the state and had demanded a probe by NIA.
The Mominpore violence reflects the larger malaise ailing West Bengal, where instances of anti-Hindu violence have shockingly become par for the course.