Violence has erupted in parts of West Bengal’s Murshidabad district following protests against the Waqf Amendment Act. So far, 150 people have been arrested and 3 people have died. The situation remains tense in several areas.
Top 10 Simple Updates on the Waqf Amendment Act Violence in Bengal:
- What Happened:
Protests turned violent in Murshidabad after the Parliament passed the Waqf Amendment Bill, which changes how Waqf properties (Muslim religious endowments) are managed across India. - Affected Areas:
The worst-hit areas include Suti, Dhulian, Samserganj, and Jangipur. Police have now imposed restrictions to stop large gatherings. - Court’s Action:
The Calcutta High Court has called the situation “grave and volatile” and has ordered central forces to help control the violence.
Also See: Behind the Murshidabad Violence: Why BJP Says Hindus Are Unsafe in Bengal!
- Mamata Banerjee’s Response:
The Chief Minister has asked people to stay calm. She blamed the central government for bringing the law and clarified that her party, TMC, does not support the Waqf Amendment Act. - BJP’s Allegation:
Opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari claimed that over 400 Hindus have been forced to flee their homes due to the violence. He accused the TMC government of supporting radical elements. - Governor’s Concern:
Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose welcomed the High Court’s decision to send in central forces and said it came at the right time. - How It Started:
The violence began on April 8 in Murshidabad, a Muslim-majority area, where protesters threw stones at police and set vehicles on fire. - Wider Protests:
Large protests against the Waqf Amendment Act were also seen in Kolkata and other parts of the state earlier this month. - Police Statement:
West Bengal’s top cop Rajeev Kumar said the protests started peacefully but later turned violent, with public property being damaged and communal tension rising. - Political Pressure:
This violence comes at a difficult time for Mamata Banerjee, who is preparing for the next Assembly elections. Her government is also dealing with protests by over 26,000 teachers whose jobs were recently cancelled by the Supreme Court.
This incident highlights the growing tension in Bengal over the Waqf Amendment Act and its impact on local communities. The situation is still sensitive, and efforts are being made to restore peace.
