Violent protests broke out in West Bengal’s Murshidabad over the Waqf (Amendment) Act. As a result, three people lost their lives, and many, including police officers, sustained injuries.
Court Orders Central Forces
Due to the worsening situation, the Calcutta High Court ordered the immediate deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). The goal was to restore law and order. Despite this, violence continued for a second straight day on Saturday.
Killings Spark Outrage
On Friday night, the unrest turned deadly. According to police, mobs killed Haragobindo Das (65) and his son Chandan Das (40) after dragging them from their home in Samserganj. Meanwhile, Ezaz Ahmed (25) died from bullet injuries in Suti.
Soon after, violence spread to Suti, Samserganj, and Dhuliyan. Protesters torched vehicles, attacked homes, and clashed with police. So far, police have arrested more than 138 people.
Videos Reveal Widespread Chaos
Moreover, disturbing videos appeared online. In Jalangi, rioters stormed a block development office. In Azimganj, they ransacked a railway worker’s office. One clip showed looters robbing a retail shop. Consequently, police used batons and tear gas. Protesters also blocked the National Highway, worsening the chaos.
High Court Criticizes State
Reacting to the violence, the Calcutta High Court sharply criticized the state’s slow response. It described the situation as “grave and volatile.” The court stressed, “Constitutional courts cannot remain passive when citizens’ safety is at risk.” Furthermore, it ordered the deployment of central forces in any other district facing similar violence. The state must now submit a detailed report by April 17.
Political Responses Pour In
West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose backed the court’s order. He said the intervention was “timely and necessary to restore peace and order.”
In contrast, the BJP accused the Trinamool Congress (TMC) of allowing lawlessness to gain political advantage. The TMC responded by accusing the Opposition of “politicising the issue and exploiting religious sentiments.”
Centre Steps In to Assist
Meanwhile, the Union Home Ministry deployed more BSF companies. It also held high-level meetings with the state administration. BSF personnel are now helping local authorities to restore calm.
BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari has demanded an NIA investigation. He alleged that a particular community is being targeted.
Protests Spread Beyond Bengal
Additionally, unrest spread to Tripura. In Kailashahar, a protest rally turned violent on Saturday. Clashes broke out between demonstrators and police. Several people, including journalists, suffered injuries.
Law Sparks Tension
The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 has become a flashpoint. It aims to reform the management of Islamic charitable properties. However, it has triggered outrage in areas with large Muslim populations. Authorities are urging calm. At the same time, they promise strict action against those behind the violence.
