Murshidabad continues to remain tense over protests against the Waqf Amendment Act, which turned violent over the weekend. Four protesters were injured in police firing, and a youth died while undergoing treatment at Murshidabad Medical College and Hospital on Saturday. The deceased has been identified as 21-year-old youth Ejaz Ahmed. Golam Muddin Sheikh and Hasan Sheikh were also injured in the firing and were admitted to Jangipur Hospital. One person’s name is unknown.
According to official sources, 15 police personnel were also injured in clashes with protesters since Friday and are currently undergoing treatment. Over 110 individuals have been arrested in connection with the violence. A district police official stated, “approximately 70 individuals have been arrested in Suti, while 41 others were apprehended in Shamserganj.”
The protests erupted on Friday afternoon during an anti-Waqf Amendment Act rally, escalating into widespread violence. Several incidents of arson and vandalism were reported from Dakbangla More, Dhulian, Suti’s Suja More, Aurangabad, and parts of Samserganj. Protesters allegedly set fire to government and private buses, including an ambulance, and vandalised the Dhulian traffic police office. Police responded with tear gas to disperse the crowd, and there are allegations that live rounds were also fired.
Tensions soared after demonstrators allegedly violated Section 144 and blocked National Highway 12. Violence escalated in Dhulian Dakbangla and Ratanpur areas, with stone-pelting targeting law enforcement. The Farakka Sub-Divisional Police Office (SDPO) was also attacked. To control the situation, BSF personnel were deployed and jointly patrolled the region with police on Saturday.
Local residents alleged that miscreants backed by the BJP infiltrated the protest and incited violence in a “pre-planned conspiracy” aimed at creating communal unrest and political polarization. “They are trying to use religion to destabilize Bengal and gain power,” claimed a local resident.
The unrest severely disrupted transportation. Road connectivity between North and South Bengal was temporarily severed, and train services were suspended at several stations in Murshidabad. However, by Saturday night, train operations resumed with additional Railway Protection Force (RPF) deployed for security.
Addressing a press conference at Nabanna, Director General of Police (DGP) Rajeev Kumar said, “Strict action will be taken against anyone spreading unrest or engaging in hooliganism. We urge people not to believe in rumors or provocations. Protecting lives is our priority, and we’re monitoring the situation closely.” “While the police try to control the situation using minimal force, it doesn’t mean that stronger measures won’t be taken if needed. Senior officers are present on the ground, and no criminal will be spared,” he added.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also issued an appeal for peace via a statement on X, urging all communities to remain calm and not be misled by political elements exploiting religious sentiments. “My earnest appeal to all is to stay restrained and peaceful. Do not engage in unruly acts in the name of religion. Every human life is precious. Those rioting are harming society. Religion stands for humanity, compassion, and harmony,” the Chief Minister wrote on X.
