NEW DELHI: Violent clashes broke out in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district beginning April 8, following widespread protests against the newly enacted Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025.
The unrest, initially marked by peaceful demonstrations, quickly spiraled into chaos, leading to at least three deaths, multiple injuries—including police personnel—and widespread property damage.
The violence erupted in Jangipur’s Umarpur area on April 8, when demonstrators protesting the Act blocked National Highway 12, set police vehicles on fire, and clashed with law enforcement officials.
Protesters, largely from the Muslim community, expressed outrage over the central law, which they claim threatens religious rights and Waqf property autonomy.
Despite Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stating that the Waqf (Amendment) Act will not be implemented in Bengal, demonstrations intensified in Murshidabad. On April 11, protests turned violent again—MP Khalilur Rahaman’s office was attacked, and trains at Nimtita railway station were targeted with stones.
BSF deployed in sensitive areas of PS Shamsherganj & Suti, Murshidabad (WB), to assist state police in restoring normalcy amid protests against the Waqf Amendment Bill.#Murshidabad #BSF #WaqfAmendment pic.twitter.com/jCgaBn6KQ9
— BSF_SOUTH BENGAL: KOLKATA (@BSF_SOUTHBENGAL) April 13, 2025
To contain the situation, the state administration imposed Section 144, suspended internet services, and deployed the BSF along with state police.
Over 150 arrests have been made as of April 12, as law enforcement continues efforts to stabilize the area.
At least three people have died, and over 10 others—including police officers—have been injured. Hospitals in Jangipur and Berhampore reported a surge in emergency admissions linked to the violence.
Chief Minister Banerjee reiterated that her government opposes the Act but condemned the violent protests. “We will not allow any law that undermines the rights of any community… but violence is not the answer,” she said in an April 12 briefing.
Meanwhile, the central government defended the Act, claiming it brings transparency and accountability to Waqf property management. Opposition parties, including Congress and the Left Front, accused the BJP-led Centre of inciting communal unrest through politically driven legislation.
As of April 13, the situation in Murshidabad remains tense but under control. Security forces continue to patrol sensitive areas while intelligence agencies monitor for further flare-ups. More arrests and investigations are expected in the coming days.
