Murshidabad Erupts Over Amended Waqf Act: 3 Dead, Dozens Injured, BSF Deployed

Murshidabad Erupts Over Amended Waqf Act: 3 Dead, Dozens Injured, BSF Deployed

Murshidabad Experiences Unrest Over Revised Waqf Act: Three Fatalities, Numerous Injuries, BSF Called In

Tensions are rising in Murshidabad, West Bengal, as large-scale protests against the Revised Waqf Act continue. The areas of Suti, Samserganj, and Dhulian have become hotspots for violence in recent days. The situation escalated dramatically following reports of three confirmed fatalities, which have sent shockwaves throughout the community.

Violence and Casualties

As reported by police sources to news agency ANI, violent demonstrations, arson, and acts of vandalism erupted in various parts of Murshidabad on Friday and Saturday, resulting in three deaths. According to PTI, in Jafarabad, a father and son lost their lives in what is believed to be a mob attack on their residence. Additionally, in Dhulian, a young man who suffered gunshot wounds during the protests died from his injuries at Murshidabad Medical College Hospital on Saturday.

Widespread Destruction

The violence escalated significantly as protesters clashed with law enforcement, set vehicles on fire, and damaged both public and private property. Reports of looting emerged from jewelry stores, sweet shops, and shopping malls. Major highways and railway lines were obstructed, resulting in significant transportation disruptions in the area. Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of chaos, including burning police vehicles, damaged ambulances, looted buildings, and frightened residents fleeing their homes.

A local government official in Suti informed BBC Bangla, "We have been living in fear for days. Police vehicles, ambulances, and buses have been attacked, and even private residences have been looted. The administration was completely overwhelmed. It was only after the deployment of the BSF that some semblance of control was restored, but the fear still lingers."

In Dhulian, a railway gatekeeper recounted how demonstrators vandalized essential signaling equipment, leading to a halt in train operations for several hours. "They not only damaged technical devices but also took chairs from the control room," he remarked.

Security and Legal Measures  

The state government has increased police presence and called in senior officials to manage the unrest. Additionally, Border Security Force (BSF) personnel were dispatched to areas affected by violence late Friday night. In response to a request from Opposition Leader Suvendu Adhikari, the Calcutta High Court mandated the deployment of central forces in Murshidabad to restore order.

During a press conference on Saturday, West Bengal's Director General of Police, Rajeev Kumar, announced a strict zero-tolerance stance against vandalism. “We will not tolerate any form of hooliganism. Those who disrupt peace will face prompt and severe action,” he stated.

Additional Director General Javed Shamim reported that 118 individuals have been arrested thus far, with at least 15 police officers injured, some of them seriously. The state has also suspended internet services in certain regions and banned gatherings of more than five people in the most sensitive areas.

Political Responses and Accountability  

Opposition parties, including the BJP, Congress, and CPI(M), have criticized the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) for its inability to manage the crisis. BJP leaders accused the TMC of engaging in appeasement politics and not empowering the police to take decisive action. Conversely, protesters have alleged that the police employed excessive force.

Governor CV Ananda Bose addressed the public through a video message, stating, "Protest is permissible, but chaos is not. The state is fully equipped. Anyone who violates the law will be held accountable."

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urged for calm in a social media post:  

“To all individuals of different faiths – please remain peaceful and composed. Avoid any wrongful actions in the name of religion. This law was not enacted by us; it is a central law.”We have clearly stated our opposition to this matter and confirmed that we will not enforce it in West Bengal. Therefore, what is the cause of the unrest?

Additionally, she announced a meeting set for next Wednesday in Kolkata to engage with community leaders, imams, and members of civil society regarding the Waqf Act.

Violence Erupts in Tripura  

In a related development, protests against the amended Waqf law escalated into violence in Kailashahar, located in the Unakoti district of Tripura. Clashes occurred between demonstrators and law enforcement, resulting in several injuries. Tear gas was deployed to disperse the crowd, and reinforcements from police and paramilitary forces were sent to restore order.

DIG Rati Ranjan Debnath reported that stones were hurled at the police, leading to confrontations during the protest. An investigation is currently underway to identify those involved.