The flames of dissent against the Waqf law have erupted in Murshidabad, West Bengal, turning protests into acts of violence. Rioters pelted stones, engaged in arson, halted trains, and vandalized several offices, targeting even the police. So far, the violence has claimed three lives. Two fatalities were reported on Saturday afternoon during the chaos; the victims were father and son. Violent clashes left 15 policemen injured, and over 150 suspects have been arrested. In light of this, the BSF has been deployed to prevent further escalation. Meanwhile, the police have urged the public to avoid spreading rumors.
In the violence-stricken Shamsherganj area of Jafrarabad, Hargobind Das and his son Chandan were brutally stabbed at their home, succumbing to their injuries at the hospital. The victim's family alleges the attackers also looted their home. The police have conducted autopsies and are questioning family members and locals. On Friday, a 21-year-old named Ijah Ahmed was shot during a clash at Sazur Mor, Suti, and later died at Murshidabad Medical College.
According to PTI, in Dhuliyan, a nearby area, two workers at a local bidi factory, Golam Moinuddin Sheikh and another, were also shot but remain stable under medical care. Police are patrolling and conducting route marches in affected areas to maintain control.
Source: aajtak
Over 150 Suspects Arrested
The Central Home Secretary held a video conference with Bengal's Chief Secretary and DGP in response to the Murshidabad violence. The DGP reported a tense but controlled situation, with BSF assistance in place and over 150 individuals arrested.
Central Home Secretary Takes Stock of Situation
The Central Home Secretary stated that, in addition to approximately 300 BSF personnel already available locally in Murshidabad, five companies have been dispatched at the state government's request. He advised the state administration to closely monitor other sensitive districts and take adequate steps to restore normalcy. He assured continual monitoring from the center and pledged additional support, if needed, including more central security forces.
Source: aajtak
Paramilitary Forces Deployment in Violent Areas
Following the Calcutta High Court's order, central forces will be deployed in Murshidabad. The center is sending 16 companies of paramilitary forces to West Bengal. Approximately 1600 paramilitary personnel will be stationed in the tumultuous regions, arriving soon.
Governor Discusses Situation with Political Parties
West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose expressed that he has been informed about the Calcutta High Court's directive for central forces deployment across riot-affected areas of West Bengal including Murshidabad. Ensuring peace and normalcy in these regions necessitates the presence of central forces. He has discussed the situation with various political leaders and welcomed the court's timely intervention and decision.
Source: aajtak
Crowds Set Police Vehicles Ablaze, Damage Railway Property
Amidst the chaos, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee declared that the Waqf law will not be enforced in the state, following the Calcutta High Court's orders for CAPF deployment. The areas of Suti and Shamsherganj witnessed severe tension on both Friday and Saturday. Protesters torched police vehicles, damaged railway properties, and blocked roads. Train operations in the New Farakka-Azimganj rail section were disrupted for nearly six hours.
Mamata Declares the Law as Central, Not Ours
CM Mamata Banerjee posted on social media, clarifying that this law is a creation of the Central Government, unassociated with her administration. She reiterated that the law will not be imposed in Bengal, questioning the riots' purpose. Banerjee urged residents to maintain peace and resist provocations.
Source: aajtak
Court Demands Detailed Report by April 17
Upon hearing opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari's plea, the division bench of the Calcutta High Court underscored the necessity of prompt judicial action under such circumstances to ensure citizens' safety. Both the Center and the state have been asked to submit comprehensive reports on the situation by April 17.
