Chief minister Mamata Banerjee has said stern action will be taken against criminals, regardless of their caste, creed or religion.

The chief minister was speaking in Nabanna on Wednesday against the backdrop of Tuesday’s attack on police at Tikiapara in Howrah when they tried to enforce the lockdown.

At least 10 people have been arrested and four detained in connection with the assault on the cops. The police said a search is on for others involved in the attack.

At least two police personnel were seriously injured in a mob attack on Belilious Road when the police had tried to enforce the lockdown in the area. Two police vehicles were damaged in the violence, the police said.

A Howrah court on Wednesday remanded the arrested — booked for violating the lockdown, arson, deterring a public servant from performing his/her duty — in police custody.

“There was an incident in Tikiapara. It should not have happened. I have told the police to take stern action, to book those who are the real culprits without harassing the innocent,” Mamata said on Wednesday.

“A crime is a crime. We do not see caste, creed or religion. This is Bengal. We love everyone. But if someone commits a crime, the person is a criminal,” the chief minister added.

The police in Howrah have been maintaining strict vigil since Section 144 of the CrPC was imposed on April 1 to ensure lockdown rules are not violated.

The cops have been requesting people over loudhailers to stay indoors.