Amid Communal Tension In West Bengal, Neighbours Aid Muslim Youth's Marriage

West Bengal has been gripped by communal animosity since the rioting intensified in the state which was sparked by now suspended BJP leader Nupur Sharma's controversial remarks on Prophet Muhammad. The Howrah area in the state also witnessed an outbreak of violence and curfews were placed.

Amidst the communal tension, neighbours from Howrah's Uluberia ensured that it did not affect their relationships nor does it mar the wedding ceremony of a young Muslim woman in their neighbourhood. Reportedly, the neighbours took care of everything including welcoming the groom to ensure the bride's safe journey to her in-laws' place.

Neighbours Help Wed Young Muslim Woman Amid Unrest

Pakiza Mullick, along with her three siblings, was raised by her mother Iddenesa since their father passed away eight years ago. Things weren't looking up for the family who lives in a small house off the NH-6 where the protestors put up a roadblock. Just when Iddenesa thought she'd have to postpone the wedding, her neighbours stood up in her support.

Tapas Kodali, Lakhikanta Kayal and Uttam Dolui shouldered the responsibilities and ensured that the ceremony takes place without a glitch.

Suggested Reading: Bizarre: Bihar Groom Backs Out Of Marriage After Exchanging Garlands With Bride

Speaking to the New Indian Express, Iddenesa said that there were massive protests in their area and she was worried when the administration imposed a curfew under Section 144 of CrPC which bars an assembly of more than five people. "I had no way out other than postponing my daughter Pakiza’s marriage which was scheduled on Sunday. But my Hindu neighbours came forward and assured me that they would take care of everything," she was quoted as saying.

Kodali, Kayal and Dolui rushed to the police station and obtained permission for assembling for the wedding. The neighbours were also quoted saying how they had grown up in the same village together and stood beside each other through thick and thin, it warranted they step up to the occasion and be her "helping hands". Kayal added that the Mullick family has been enthusiastically participating in all the local events and it was also their duty as citizens to stand beside her.

The mother of the bride was also quoted saying how only 150 of the 300 guests turned up and how the neighbours were very hospitable. She added that they also helped her rent a vehicle to ensure the safe travel of the bride to her in-laws' house. "I will be grateful to them for the rest of my life," the mother said.

The newly-wed groom, Sheikh Mokkabir, reportedly, corroborated that because the neighbours were so hospitable and took on the responsibilities his wedding ceremony went on smoothly.