Amid escalating tensions in West Bengal over the Waqf (Amendment) Act, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday, April 14, 2025, made an emotional appeal to the people of the state, urging them to maintain peace and not resort to violence. Her statement came in response to widespread protests and violent clashes that have rocked regions like Murshidabad and South 24 Parganas, resulting in multiple injuries and at least three reported deaths.

In her address, Mamata Banerjee said, "We live once and die once. So, why is there a riot? Every caste and religion has the right to protest, but do not take law into your hands." She further warned the public against being misled by certain groups who, according to her, are trying to incite violence. “Some people are trying to mislead you, do not pay attention to them,” she added.

The remarks come in the wake of violent confrontations between supporters of the Indian Secular Front (ISF) and the West Bengal Police in Bhangar, a town located in the South 24 Parganas district. The ISF protestors, opposing the recently passed Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, were en route to a rally at Ramlila Maidan in central Kolkata, when they were stopped by the police, resulting in a violent escalation.

Protesters clashed with security forces, setting police vehicles ablaze and injuring several individuals. These developments follow a string of similar demonstrations across the state, particularly in Murshidabad, which has emerged as the epicentre of anti-Waqf Act protests. The unrest in Murshidabad has been particularly deadly, leaving at least three people dead and prompting the deployment of central forces, as per the Calcutta High Court’s directive.

The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, passed recently by the Indian Parliament, has sparked widespread concern among sections of the Muslim community, who fear that it undermines their religious rights and control over Waqf properties. The Act is also being scrutinized for its potential to alter the socio-religious landscape and allegedly infringe on the rights of Hindu communities residing in proximity to these lands.

Adding to the gravity of the situation, a petition was filed in the Supreme Court earlier in the day by advocate Shashank Shekhar Jha, demanding a court-monitored Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into the violence. The petition urges the apex court to seek an explanation from the West Bengal government and the Union Home Ministry over the alleged failure of law-and-order machinery.

The plea also emphasizes the need for compensation and rehabilitation for those affected by the violence, and calls for the protection of life and liberty to prevent further escalation. It further asserts that the targeted nature of the violence, particularly against the Hindu community, raises serious constitutional concerns related to religious freedom and the right to life.

The situation on the ground remains tense. With the deployment of additional security personnel in vulnerable areas, the government is attempting to restore calm and prevent any more outbreaks of violence. In districts like Murshidabad, Malda, and South 24 Parganas, schools, markets, and government offices have been shut, and Section 144 has been imposed in sensitive zones.

Meanwhile, leaders of the Indian Secular Front have condemned the police action and accused the state government of suppressing legitimate dissent. Naushad Siddique, ISF’s MLA from Bhangar who was slated to address the protest rally, said, “The Waqf Act changes are draconian and against the interests of the Muslim community. The government is using force to silence us.”

In stark contrast, leaders from the BJP and other opposition parties have accused the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government of appeasing certain groups and failing to maintain communal harmony in the state. They have demanded immediate intervention by central agencies, including NIA and CRPF, to maintain peace and order.

This incident is another addition to West Bengal’s troubled history of religious and political clashes, particularly around contentious legislation. With the Lok Sabha elections approaching, the unrest is likely to become a flashpoint for political rivalries, both within the state and nationally.

While Mamata Banerjee’s appeal for peace may help douse the fire temporarily, the roots of discontent—stemming from identity politics, religious sentiment, and perceived state inaction—continue to fester. Many in the state are now calling for impartial investigations and meaningful dialogue to resolve the conflict.

Civil society organizations and human rights groups have also voiced concern over the rising tensions and have appealed to all communities to maintain harmony. Some have urged both the state and central governments to review the implications of the Waqf amendment and open platforms for inclusive discussions that uphold constitutional values.

In summary, the situation in Murshidabad and parts of South Bengal remains volatile, with the Waqf (Amendment) Act at the centre of the storm. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s plea for non-violence is a crucial step, but effective conflict resolution will require proactive governance, legal clarity, and inclusive dialogue. The coming days will be decisive in determining whether the state can navigate through this period of religious and political unrest without further bloodshed.

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