Murshidabad, April 8: Violent clashes erupted in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district on Tuesday as protests against the recently implemented Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 spiraled out of control.
According to local reports, protesters allegedly set a police vehicle ablaze, prompting immediate deployment of additional security forces in the area.
The internet services were temporarily throttled as a precautionary measure to curb misinformation and prevent escalation.
Visuals of the violence were shared online by Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) IT cell head Amit Malviya, sparking political outrage.
Malviya blamed Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee directly, accusing her of fueling unrest through her “Muslim appeasement” policies.
He alleged that the West Bengal Police is unable to contain the “Islamist mob” and hinted at political interference from the highest levels.
In a strongly worded tweet, he claimed that the mob was incited by inflammatory speeches and that Mamata Banerjee had lost control of the law and order situation.
Malviya also stated that protesters were chanting slogans like, “I do not accept the Constitution, and I never will.”
He questioned Mamata’s role as Home Minister of the state and demanded her resignation if she couldn’t restore peace.
The BJP has raised concerns over attacks on Hindus in the region, recalling tensions during recent Kartik Puja celebrations.
“Mamata’s politics is taking Bengal closer to Bangladesh-like chaos,” Malviya warned, adding fuel to the ongoing political firestorm.
Meanwhile, CM Mamata Banerjee dismissed the Act as part of BJP’s “divide and rule” tactics.
In her response, she labeled the Act as a “jumla” and accused the BJP of disrespecting the Constitution.
“First learn to respect the Constitution before taking away someone’s rights,” Mamata said in a public statement.
The CM stood firm, saying her government would not be swayed by divisive legislative moves.
Simultaneously, Manipur also witnessed similar protests, with members of the Muslim community marching against the Act.
The unrest signals a wider nationwide discontent over the Waqf Act amendments introduced by the central government.
The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 aims to revamp the governance of Waqf properties across India.
The government claims it enhances transparency, accountability, and digital integration in Waqf property management.
Changes include updating definitions, streamlining registration, and rebranding the Act for broader reforms.
The Centre insists the amendments address “long-standing administrative loopholes” in Waqf property regulation.
However, critics argue the Act is politically motivated and allegedly infringes on minority rights.
Opposition parties have called it a “targeted legislation” that contradicts the spirit of India’s Constitution.
Social media has exploded with polarized reactions, #WaqfActProtest trending across platforms.
Political analysts warn that this issue could further intensify communal tensions in Bengal and beyond.
Civil rights groups have urged both the Centre and state to engage in dialogue and de-escalation efforts.
Bengal’s ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) has accused BJP of inciting unrest for electoral mileage.
Meanwhile, BJP leaders are demanding central intervention in Bengal’s law enforcement due to alleged failure.
The clash over the Act may also affect the upcoming local elections in the region, observers suggest.
Local police have confirmed several arrests, but the situation remains tense and under constant watch.
Security forces are conducting area patrolling and surveillance to prevent further flare-ups.
Union Home Ministry is yet to issue an official statement on the violence reported in Murshidabad.
Mamata’s administration continues to defend its position, blaming the BJP for orchestrating political drama.
The BJP, on the other hand, vows to raise the issue in Parliament and demand clarification from the Centre.
Legal experts are now debating whether the new Waqf provisions infringe upon religious or property rights.
Human rights activists have called for a Supreme Court review of the controversial provisions.
As the nation watches, the Waqf Act unrest appears to have ignited a fresh political and communal flashpoint.
Whether the storm calms or turns into a larger movement remains to be seen in the days ahead.
