April 14, 2025 | Murshidabad, West Bengal | By Team of BoldVoices.in
Tensions flared in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district over the past week as violent protests erupted in response to the recently passed Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. The unrest, which has resulted in at least three fatalities, more than a dozen injuries, and over 200 arrests, has prompted statewide concern and intervention by the Calcutta High Court.
Timeline of Events:-
April 8: The protests began when large groups of demonstrators took to the streets, voicing opposition to what they described as an infringement on minority religious rights. Protesters blocked National Highway 12 near Umarpur, torched police vehicles, and vandalized public property, including the office of local MP Khalilur Rahaman.
April 11: The situation worsened when agitators disrupted railway services at Nimtita station, pelting stones at a stationary train and squatting on tracks. Public and private vehicles were vandalized, and multiple incidents of arson were reported.
April 12: In response, the state government suspended internet services in several areas of Murshidabad to curb the spread of rumors and misinformation. Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, which restricts public gatherings, was imposed in violence-hit zones.
The Calcutta High Court, taking cognizance of the deteriorating law and order situation, directed the immediate deployment of central paramilitary forces, including the Border Security Force (BSF), to assist the state police.
Government Response & Political Reactions :-
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee addressed the public on Friday, condemning the violence and appealing for communal harmony. “We will not implement the Waqf (Amendment) Act in West Bengal. Our commitment is to peace and unity,” Banerjee stated, urging citizens not to fall prey to incitement.
Opposition leaders, however, criticized the government’s handling of the situation. BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari called the violence “premeditated” and demanded a National Investigation Agency (NIA) probe. State BJP President Sukanta Majumdar, who attempted to visit affected areas, was briefly detained by police and later released.
The protests stem from widespread apprehension surrounding the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, which alters the administration of Waqf properties across India. Community leaders argue that the changes strip away protections for religious institutions and undermine minority rights. The Act received presidential assent on April 5.
As of this report, the situation remains tense but under control, with heavy security deployment across sensitive areas of the district. Schools and markets remain closed in parts of Murshidabad, while authorities continue to monitor developments closely.
BoldVoices.in 
Leave a comment