Waqf act protests turns violent in North Bengal; 3 Dead, 150 Arrested

Mangalore Today News Network

Kolkata, April 13, 2025: Several areas of Murshidabad district in north Bengal remain tense following violent protests against the Waqf Amendment Act that have left three people dead and led to the arrest of at least 150 individuals. The unrest has gripped key locations including Suti, Dhulian, Samserganj, and Jangipur.

In the wake of the violence, the Calcutta High Court has intervened, terming the situation "grave and volatile" and ordering the deployment of central forces to restore order. The court stated, "Constitutional Courts cannot be a mute spectator and embroil itself in technical defences when the safety and security of the people are at danger."

The West Bengal Police have imposed prohibitory orders across the affected regions to prevent large gatherings, and officials have now claimed that the situation is under control.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has urged for calm and squarely blamed the Centre for the controversial legislation. She stated that her party, the Trinamool Congress (TMC), does not support the Waqf Amendment Act. “Those behind the riots are harming society,” Ms. Banerjee said, distancing her administration from the central law.

Meanwhile, Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari has alleged religious persecution, claiming over 400 Hindus have been forced to flee their homes. “Religious persecution in Bengal is real. The appeasement politics of TMC has emboldened radical elements. Hindus are being hunted, our people are running for their lives in their own land,” he said in a strongly worded statement.

Governor CV Ananda Bose has also weighed in, expressing concern over the outbreak of violence and welcoming the High Court’s directive. “I’m glad that the High Court has stepped in and given the appropriate decision at the appropriate time,” he said.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, even as political blame games intensify and communities grapple with fear and uncertainty.