Shops Set Ablaze in East Midnapore; Political Pressure Builds

East Midnapore: Five shops were set on fire allegedly by bike-borne miscreants in East Midnapore's Khejuri area late on Sunday night. Locals panicked after the fire broke out. Two fire engines rushed to the spot. The blaze was brought under control after about two hours of effort. Tension gripped the area. Raff and central forces were deployed. Political pressure was also building up over the incident. The affected shop owners did not directly complain to the BJP, though the Trinamool Congress blamed the BJP for the incident. The BJP claimed it was always in favour of maintaining peace and order in the area. The BJP leadership said, "Some people are trying to create unrest in the area by using the BJP's name. Police are investigating, we are also keeping a watch. Legal action will be taken against those involved." Police have launched an investigation into the incident.