In a tragic and horrifying turn of events, Murshidabad district in West Bengal witnessed a brutal double murder on April 12, 2025, during protests related to the Waqf law. A father and son duo, identified as Hargovind Das and Chandan Das, were dragged out of their home and attacked by a violent mob, leading to their death. A disturbing video showing the aftermath of the mob assault has now surfaced, shocking the nation and drawing intense scrutiny of the law and order situation in the region.

Details of the Incident

The horrific act occurred in the Jafarganj area of Murshidabad. According to eyewitness reports and preliminary investigations, a group of men stormed into the residential locality amid ongoing protests over the Waqf law, which had sparked tensions in parts of the district. The assailants targeted the residence of Hargovind Das, forcibly pulled him and his son out of their home, and attacked them with sharp weapons in full view of bystanders.

The video footage, which began circulating on social media shortly after the incident, shows Chandan Das lying critically injured, covered in blood on the roadside, while the lifeless body of his father is seen a few feet away. The visceral nature of the visuals has prompted widespread condemnation and demands for justice. Many have described the content as deeply disturbing, with civil society groups calling for swift legal action.

Arrests and Police Action

Following a statewide outcry, the West Bengal Police moved quickly to investigate the murders. As of now, four individuals have been arrested in connection with the mob lynching:

1. Jiaul Sheikh – Alleged mastermind behind the assault.

2. Kalu Nadar

3. Dildar – Arrested near the India-Bangladesh border.

4. Inzamam

Police sources have indicated that Jiaul Sheikh, arrested on Sunday, is believed to have coordinated the attack, possibly with the involvement of others yet to be identified. The investigation team is analyzing the video footage as crucial evidence, along with witness testimonies and mobile data.

Authorities confirmed that multiple angles are being pursued, including the possible premeditated nature of the killings and communal motivations behind the attack. The police have also not ruled out further arrests, as the case continues to unravel.

Background of the Protests

The Waqf law has been a contentious issue in several parts of West Bengal, particularly among communities who claim encroachment of land rights, misuse of Waqf properties, or lack of transparency in management. The protests in Jafarganj had reportedly intensified after rumours spread regarding new property listings under Waqf ownership, which some local residents interpreted as a threat to their ancestral holdings.

What began as a localized protest escalated into mob violence, culminating in the fatal assault on the Das family. Local administrative officials claim they had anticipated unrest, but failed to deploy enough forces, a lapse that might have contributed to the escalation of the situation.

Public Outrage and Political Response

The violent incident and the graphic video evidence have led to widespread outrage across social and political spectrums. Human rights groups have condemned the mob lynching, urging the state government to ensure justice is served swiftly. Many citizens took to social media to express their shock and grief, demanding accountability not just from the perpetrators but also from law enforcement and local authorities.

While opposition leaders have used the incident to highlight the breakdown of law and order in West Bengal, the state government has called for restraint and promised a thorough investigation. A statement released by the Murshidabad district administration said that those responsible will be brought to justice and any lapses in administrative response will be reviewed.

Communal Sensitivities and Preventive Measures

The Jafarganj violence has also raised alarms about the communal harmony in the region. While no official confirmation has been provided about religious motivations, the pattern of violence, victim identity, and targeting during a sensitive protest indicate possible sectarian undertones. The state police have issued alerts in sensitive districts to prevent retaliatory incidents or further flare-ups.

The Home Ministry has reportedly asked for a detailed report on the incident and the measures being taken to maintain peace and order. Police presence has been increased in Jafarganj and surrounding areas, with patrolling units deployed to avoid escalation.

Calls for Legal Reforms and Accountability

Legal experts and activists have used this case to reignite discussions on mob lynching laws, Waqf board transparency, and grassroots community engagement. They argue that the lack of early intervention, slow administrative response, and ongoing land disputes create a volatile environment that can easily spiral into violence.

There are also calls for compensation to the victims’ family, independent judicial inquiry, and the creation of a state-level task force to address Waqf-related grievances in a structured and legally compliant manner.

Conclusion

The Murshidabad Waqf violence, which led to the heartbreaking deaths of Hargovind Das and Chandan Das, stands as a stark reminder of the fragility of communal peace and the dangers of unchecked mob sentiment. The disturbing visuals, showing the aftermath of a targeted attack, have deeply unsettled the public conscience.

With four arrests made, including the alleged mastermind Jiaul Sheikh, the onus is now on the West Bengal Police and judicial authorities to deliver swift justice and ensure that such barbaric acts are never repeated. In parallel, the state administration must address the underlying tensions surrounding Waqf laws, land rights, and community grievances to prevent future unrest.

As investigations continue, the nation watches closely, hoping for not only justice for the victims, but also healing and accountability in a region scarred by a deeply tragic episode of mob violence.

Start your Stock Market Journey and Apply in IPO by Opening Free Demat Account in Choice Broking FinX.

Join our Trading with CA Abhay Telegram Channel for regular Stock Market Trading and Investment Calls by CA Abhay Varn - SEBI Registered Research Analyst.