West Bengal

 IIE DIGITAL DESK :The Murshidabad district of West Bengal has been the center of intense protests following the implementation of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. The protests, which began peacefully, escalated into violent clashes between demonstrators and police, leading to more than 200 arrests. In an effort to restore law and order, the local authorities have suspended internet services across several parts of the district and imposed Section 144 to prevent further gatherings. While tensions remain high, police are optimistic that full normalcy will soon be restored.

 The protests in Murshidabad began in early April 2025, sparked by the passing of the Waqf (Amendment) Act. The legislation, which aims to regulate the management and usage of Waqf properties in India, has been controversial, particularly in areas with significant Muslim populations, including Murshidabad. Critics of the bill argue that it undermines the autonomy of local religious institutions, leading to widespread unrest across the region.

The protests quickly spread, fueled by local leaders and community activists who rallied against the government’s decision. The demonstrations were largely focused on the alleged negative impact the Waqf Act could have on religious properties and the autonomy of mosques and madrasas, leading to a sense of disenfranchisement within the local Muslim community.

 Initially peaceful, the protests began to turn violent on April 8, 2025, when a large group of demonstrators clashed with police forces. Protesters blocked highways, set fire to government vehicles, and vandalized police property. The violence intensified the next day, leading to confrontations with law enforcement officials. In one of the most dramatic incidents, protesters set fire to a police jeep in the Jangipur area, while others clashed with officers at various locations across the district.

In addition to the destruction of property, multiple trains were delayed as protesters occupied railway tracks, further escalating the crisis. These actions prompted authorities to deploy additional police personnel to manage the situation and prevent the protests from spreading to nearby districts.

 The violent protests resulted in the deaths of at least three people, while several others sustained injuries. As the situation worsened, the local police began making arrests, detaining more than 200 individuals involved in the unrest. These arrests were part of a larger crackdown on agitators, as authorities sought to restore order.

The police have imposed Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), which prohibits the assembly of four or more people in affected areas, aiming to prevent further violence. The police also ramped up security with the presence of additional forces, including specialized units from the West Bengal Police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).

 the West Bengal government took immediate action by suspending internet services across key areas of Murshidabad. This move was aimed at curbing the spread of misinformation, which authorities feared could exacerbate the situation. The suspension, which continues as of April 14, 2025, has impacted communication and social media activities within the region.

Local government officials have called for peace and calm, assuring residents that the contentious Waqf Act will be reviewed and addressed appropriately. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed concern over the violence and urged protestors to voice their concerns peacefully. “We are committed to addressing the grievances of the community,” she said, emphasizing the importance of dialogue over violence.  the situation in Murshidabad remains tense, though authorities are optimistic that full normalcy will be restored soon. Police are continuing to monitor the situation closely, and the district administration has reassured residents that steps are being taken to ensure safety. Security forces remain deployed in various hotspots across the district, and efforts are being made to de-escalate tensions.

The internet suspension remains in place, though authorities are reviewing whether to lift the ban as the situation stabilizes. Police expect that once the arrest operations are completed and security measures are implemented effectively, the protests will subside, allowing for a return to normalcy in Murshidabad.