Murshidabad Gripped by Communal Violence Over Waqf Act Protests, 3 dead

Murshidabad, April 13, 2025: A wave of communal violence swept through West Bengal’s Murshidabad district, leaving three dead and dozens injured as protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act spiraled into chaos.

 The clashes, centered in Dhulian, Suti, Jangipur, and Samserganj, erupted late last week, with mobs torching homes, shops, and vehicles in a frenzy of arson and looting.Among the victims were a father and son, brutally hacked to death, and a young man of 21, felled by a gunshot wound. At least 18 police officers sustained injuries while attempting to quell the unrest. The violence forced hundreds of residents, primarily women and children, to flee across the Bhagirathi River to Malda, where they now shelter in makeshift camps at local schools. Community members have rallied to provide food and essentials for the displaced.The Calcutta High Court intervened swiftly, ordering the deployment of central forces to restore calm. By Sunday, 17 companies of BSF and CAPF personnel were patrolling the tense streets. Authorities have detained over 180 suspects in connection with the riots, and police say the situation is stabilizing, though fear lingers among residents.

The unrest has sparked a bitter political war. The BJP accused the ruling TMC of failing to protect vulnerable communities, alleging targeted attacks on Hindu residents. TMC leaders, in turn, pointed fingers at opposition groups and central agencies, claiming a orchestrated plot to destabilize the state. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, addressing the crisis, vowed that the controversial Waqf Act would not be enforced in Bengal and appealed for peace.As investigations continue, Murshidabad remains on edge, with authorities urging unity to prevent further bloodshed.