Three Killed, Over 150 Arrested in Murshidabad Violence Against Wakf Law; Mamata Banerjee Announces Non-Implementation, Central Forces Deployed.
Murshidabad Violence Update: Violence erupted during protests against the Wakf (Amendment) Act in Murshidabad district, West Bengal, resulting in the deaths of three people, including a father and son. Following the violence, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee clarified on Saturday that the Wakf (Amendment) Act will not be implemented in the state.
Violence Situation and Security Measures
Given the escalating violence in the Suti and Shamsherganj areas of Murshidabad district, the Calcutta High Court ordered the deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). Subsequently, approximately 1600 personnel have been deployed in these areas, up from the previous 800. Following a meeting between central home ministry and state government officials, it was confirmed that additional paramilitary companies are on alert and will be deployed if needed.
Mamata Banerjee's Statement
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee tweeted that the law was passed by the central government and her government does not support it. She stated, "We did not make this law; the central government passed it. This law will not be implemented in our state." Mamata questioned the violence, asking why riots were occurring if the law originated from the central government.
The violence included the murder of a father and son in the Jafrabad area of Shamsherganj, where they were stabbed to death. In another incident, a 21-year-old youth was shot during a clash at Sajur More in Suti and later died during treatment. Police have arrested over 150 people so far.
Rail and Internet Services Affected
Due to the protests, rail services were disrupted at several locations in West Bengal. Train movement on the New Farakka and Azimganj rail routes of the Eastern Railway was halted for about six hours. Furthermore, internet services have been suspended and curfews imposed in several areas to control the escalating violence.
Meeting Between the Union Home Ministry and the State Government
Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan held a video conference with the West Bengal Chief Secretary and DGP regarding the Murshidabad violence. The Home Ministry assured West Bengal of all possible assistance and urged the state government to take steps to quickly control the violence.
Opposition's Stance
Opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari accused the protesting groups of damaging public property and instigating violence related to the Wakf (Amendment) Act. He demanded a National Investigation Agency (NIA) probe into the matter. Meanwhile, BJP state president Sukant Majumdar appealed to the state government for b action in Murshidabad and stated that such incidents would be prevented if the BJP came to power.
TMC's Counter-Attack
TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee accused the opposition of attempting to disrupt communal harmony for political gain. He asserted that the TMC has always advocated for peace and unity.
Upcoming Hearing on Law and Order
The Calcutta High Court has scheduled the next hearing in this matter for April 17. Justice Soumen Sen stated that when such situations arise, the court "cannot remain blind" and must ensure the safety of ordinary citizens.
