Protests Against the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025 Turn Violent in Muslim-Majority District; Internet Suspended, Security Tightened
Murshidabad (West Bengal), April 12:
At least three people lost their lives and over a hundred were detained in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district following violent clashes linked to widespread protests against the recently introduced Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025. The incident has raised serious concerns over law and order in the region, which is predominantly Muslim-populated.
According to the West Bengal Police, the unrest erupted on Friday when demonstrators took to the streets in large numbers, expressing their opposition to the new amendments made to the Waqf Act. The protest quickly escalated into violent confrontations, leading to arson, stone-pelting, and clashes between rival groups and security personnel.
Additional Director General (ADG) of Police, Law and Order, Jawed Shamim, confirmed that three people had died in the violence. "Two individuals were killed during the clashes while another person succumbed to injuries sustained from firing," he said during a media briefing on Saturday.
In response to the situation, a total of 118 individuals have been arrested so far. Authorities have also increased police deployment in the area to prevent further escalation and ensure public safety. Internet services in sensitive zones of Murshidabad have been temporarily suspended as a precautionary measure.
The Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025 has sparked nationwide debates and protests, especially in minority-dominated areas. Critics claim that the amendments threaten the autonomy of Waqf boards and could lead to increased government interference in religious trusts and endowments. Meanwhile, the government argues that the changes are aimed at bringing transparency and curbing misuse of Waqf properties.
Local leaders and community representatives have appealed for calm, urging people to express their dissent through democratic means rather than resorting to violence. The state government has promised a thorough investigation into the incident and assured that those responsible for inciting unrest will be held accountable.
The situation in Murshidabad remains tense but under control, with security agencies maintaining strict vigil to avert any further outbreaks of violence.
