Malda Hostage Crisis: 35 Arrested, Police Vow No Repeat Violence

• 35 people arrested so far in connection with the Malda hostage incident, including Mofakkarul Islam from Bagdogra airport for instigating people.
• Seven judicial officers, including three women, were held hostage by villagers in Malda district over mass deletions from electoral rolls.
• Supreme Court expressed concern over the state authorities' failure to provide prompt protection despite prior intimation, leaving officers without food or water.
• SC issued show-cause notices to Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, and DGP, directing Election Commission to deploy central forces for judicial officer safety.
• Police are investigating rescue delay and assure all steps to prevent future violence, while allowing peaceful protests.

Key Questions Answered

What caused the Malda hostage situation?

The Malda hostage situation was triggered by mass deletions from electoral rolls during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process.

Will more arrests happen in this case?

More arrests are likely in the Kanpur kidney transplant racket case. Officials indicated that the investigation is intensifying.

How will future protests be handled?

Future protests will be handled with increased police scrutiny and potential prosecution for officials involved in past crackdowns, as seen in Nepal.