Violence broke out in the Murshidabad district of West Bengal on Tuesday after protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act escalated into chaos. The unrest centered around the Jangipur area, where a large group of demonstrators gathered along National Highway 12 demanding the withdrawal of the controversial legislation. Eyewitnesses reported that during the demonstration, protesters threw stones at police, and a number of police vehicles were set on fire by the mob.

The incident resulted in the arrest of 22 individuals by the authorities, who acted swiftly to contain the violence. The clashes occurred in a predominantly Muslim-majority area, raising tensions as local residents voiced their opposition to the Waqf (Amendment) Act. While the protest was initially peaceful, it soon escalated into a violent confrontation between protesters and law enforcement, forcing the police to use tear gas and lathi-charges to disperse the crowd.

Police Response and Security Measures

In the aftermath of the unrest, the West Bengal police stepped up their presence in sensitive areas across Murshidabad. Authorities ensured that strict prohibitory orders remained in place until 6 pm on April 10, restricting public gatherings to prevent further escalation. Internet services in the area were also suspended until 6 pm on April 11 to curtail the spread of misinformation and maintain public order.

A senior police officer confirmed that, despite the initial violence, the situation was now under control. "The situation is calm, peaceful, and under control. Not a single untoward incident has been reported from anywhere in the district," the officer stated. However, the district continues to face a significant police presence, with forces conducting regular patrols and 'naka' checks to ensure peace. The police also stated that they would firmly deal with any attempts to disrupt communal harmony.

Violence Details and Arrests

During the protest, protesters had blocked National Highway 12 and threw stones at police officers, which led to a series of clashes. Several police vehicles were set ablaze, adding to the violence. In response, the police lathi-charged the mob and used tear gas shells to bring the situation under control. Some police personnel were injured in the stone pelting. According to the authorities, 22 people were arrested in connection with the violence, and investigations are ongoing.

The unrest was particularly intense in and around the Raghunathganj and Suti police station areas, which have been hotspots for protests against the Waqf Amendment Act. Police officials have assured the public that their efforts to restore order would continue, with additional measures taken to prevent any recurrence of violence.

Political Reactions and BJP Criticism

The violence has led to a political storm, with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders sharply criticizing the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) government for its failure to maintain law and order in the state. Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly, posted a video on X (formerly Twitter) showing images of the violent clashes. Adhikari claimed that anti-social elements were using the protest as a cover to burn public property, including police cars, and to spread chaos in the region.

He also accused the state government of engaging in vote bank politics, suggesting that the TMC was prioritizing political gains over the safety and security of the people. The BJP has demanded that the government take stronger action to maintain peace and hold those responsible for the violence accountable.

Waqf Amendment Act: Background and Controversy

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill was passed in both houses of Parliament in March 2025 after intense debates. The Act seeks to streamline the management of Waqf properties, which are assets permanently donated by Muslims for religious or charitable purposes. The new legislation includes provisions to safeguard heritage sites, improve transparency in property management, and promote social welfare. It also aims to enhance coordination between Waqf boards and local authorities, thereby protecting the rights of stakeholders.

The Act has been controversial, particularly in the Muslim-majority areas where some feel that the new regulations could lead to increased government oversight and infringement on religious rights. The situation in Murshidabad represents just one instance of the growing discontent regarding the Waqf Amendment Act, with protests flaring up in multiple districts of West Bengal and other parts of India.

Aftermath and Future Concerns

While the immediate situation in Murshidabad appears to be under control, there are ongoing concerns about the potential for further unrest in other parts of West Bengal. Authorities have vowed to maintain a strong security presence to prevent the spread of violence, and internet shutdowns remain in effect to ensure that misinformation does not exacerbate tensions.

However, the broader political fallout from the Waqf Amendment Act and its implications for religious communities across the country could fuel more protests. The state and central governments are under increasing pressure to engage in dialogue with the affected communities and address the concerns raised by critics of the Act.

The incident in Murshidabad is a stark reminder of the deep divisions that can emerge when religious and political issues intersect. As West Bengal braces for potential future protests, the government’s ability to restore peace and maintain communal harmony will be closely watched in the coming weeks.

In conclusion, the Murshidabad violence over the Waqf Amendment Act has highlighted the fragile state of law and order in parts of West Bengal, leading to a renewed focus on the need for better police preparedness and political dialogue to prevent future outbreaks of violence.

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