KKN Gurugram Desk |  A wave of violence erupted in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district over the alleged enforcement of the Waqf Bill, leading to the tragic death of three individuals. The unrest has prompted a political firestorm, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) strongly criticizing the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) government. The BJP claims that Hindus are unsafe in Bengal, alleging that the government is indulging in minority appeasement.

This latest incident adds to the growing concerns over communal tensions and administrative handling of sensitive legislation in West Bengal.

What Sparked the Violence?

According to initial reports, the violence was triggered following tensions related to alleged land acquisition and transfer under the provisions of the Waqf Act. The situation escalated quickly as local communities protested, accusing the authorities of not taking their concerns seriously.

Witnesses claim that a scuffle broke out between two groups, which soon turned into a violent mob clash, resulting in arson, vandalism, and multiple injuries.

Police sources have confirmed that:

• Three people were killed in the clash.

• Several others were critically injured and are undergoing treatment.

• Shops and houses were reportedly torched.

• A large police force and Rapid Action Force (RAF) have been deployed to bring the situation under control.

What is the Waqf Bill and Why is It Controversial?

The Waqf Act, a central legislation, governs properties donated for religious or charitable purposes in the Muslim community. Controversy arises over the transparency, verification, and alleged encroachment of non-Waqf lands under this act.

In many parts of India, including West Bengal, non-Muslim communities have raised objections to what they allege as unilateral land demarcation under the Waqf Board without proper notice or documentation.

Key Issues with the Waqf Bill (as perceived by critics):

• Lack of due process in land acquisition

• Ambiguous documentation of property rights

• Concerns over religious bias

• Alleged misuse by local Waqf Boards

BJP Reacts: “Hindus Are Not Safe in Mamata’s Bengal”

Reacting sharply to the incident, senior BJP leaders held press conferences and posted statements on social media condemning the state government’s alleged failure to maintain law and order.

BJP Spokesperson’s Statement:

“Three innocent lives lost in Murshidabad. This is not a law and order issue; this is the result of Mamata Banerjee’s politics of appeasement. Hindus are not safe in Bengal.”

The BJP has also demanded a high-level investigation, and some leaders have approached the Governor and the Ministry of Home Affairs seeking intervention.

Hashtags Trending:

• #MurshidabadViolence

• #HindusNotSafe

• #WaqfActControversy

• #BJPvsTMC

TMC Government’s Response: Political Provocation or Genuine Outrage?

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has rejected the BJP’s allegations, terming them politically motivated. In an official statement, the West Bengal Home Department said:

“The administration is fully committed to ensuring peace and justice. Preliminary investigation shows the clash was not communal in nature but involved local disputes. Political parties should not vitiate the atmosphere further.”

However, opposition parties allege that the administration is downplaying the communal angle to avoid scrutiny.

Ground Report: Situation in Murshidabad Remains Tense

As of April 13, 2025, the Murshidabad district remains under heavy police surveillance. Local markets are shut, schools have been closed, and curfew-like restrictions have been imposed in sensitive areas.

Key updates:

• Internet services have been suspended temporarily in some blocks.

• Section 144 has been enforced.

• More than 25 people have been detained in connection with the violence.

• Local families are reportedly leaving affected areas fearing further escalation.

Eyewitnesses narrated harrowing experiences of being caught between violent groups. Some survivors reported that they were targeted based on religious identity, although these claims are under investigation.

High Court Takes Cognizance

In a late-night development, the Calcutta High Court has taken suo moto cognizance of the Murshidabad incident. The court has asked the state government to submit a detailed report within 72 hours.

Court’s Observation:

“The state cannot afford to let communal harmony be disturbed. If the Waqf-related administrative practices are being misused, it must be addressed transparently.”

This move comes after multiple petitions were filed by citizen forums and advocacy groups.

Murshidabad: A History of Sensitive Communal Balance

Murshidabad, with a rich cultural and religious history, has often been on the radar for communal flare-ups, especially during election seasons or during controversial administrative decisions.

Historically, the district has seen:

• Conflicts over land ownership

• Tensions between religious groups

• Political polarization, especially during assembly and general elections

Voices From the Ground

Local Resident’s Testimony:

“We just want peace. Whether it’s Waqf or some other issue, don’t make it about religion. We are the ones who suffer on the ground.”

Political Analyst’s Take:

“The Waqf land issue is becoming a national flashpoint, particularly in states with mixed religious populations. Unless the government brings transparency in Waqf Board records and acquisition processes, such unrests will continue.”

Political Impact Ahead of 2026 West Bengal Assembly Elections

The timing of this violence is politically significant as Bengal is heading towards state elections in early 2026. The BJP has already made law and order, religious discrimination, and land rights key talking points.

The Murshidabad incident may:

• Influence rural Hindu vote banks.

• Intensify BJP’s campaign around “Hindutva” and national integrity.

• Force TMC to defend its minority welfare policies more assertively.

The Murshidabad violence over the Waqf issue exposes deeper fault lines in West Bengal’s social and political fabric. While the government urges calm and political maturity, the situation demands immediate intervention, transparency in governance, and a clear stance on religious property laws.

Whether it is about protecting constitutional rights or maintaining peace among diverse communities, the road ahead for Bengal appears fragile and politically charged.