Waqf protest turns violent in Bengal, TMC MP’s office attacked in Murshidabad

Amid the unrest, at least two trains were cancelled and five others diverted, while several commuters sustained injuries during the mob attack. Even the office of MP Khalilur Rahman was also under attack by the mobs. Khalilur Rahman said to Indian Express, “There is a deep conspiracy to defame the state government. My own office in Dhulian was ransacked. I was not present in the office at that time. I was travelling through Sajurmore crossing when the protesters stopped me and verbally abused me. Police escorted me out of the area. The protesters had no flag, no leaders,”

Elsewhere in Murshidabad, protests over the newly enacted Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 escalated into chaos as demonstrators clashed with police, torched vehicles, and engaged in large-scale vandalism.

Governor Warns of Stern Action

In response to the deteriorating law and order situation, Governor C.V. Ananda Bose issued a strong warning to those instigating violence. The Governor has instructed the state administration to take immediate and effective action against miscreants involved in the disturbances, particularly in sensitive areas such as Amtala, Suti, Dhuliyan, and parts of North 24 Parganas.

Also Read: Waqf protest turns violent in Bengal: Stones pelted, police attacked in Murshidabad

“We have a peace room where the public can share information… We always discuss such intelligence with the CM office,” he added.

The Governor confirmed holding discussions with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the Chief Secretary, although details remain confidential. A 24×7 control room and a dedicated public helpline (033-22001641) have also been set up for real-time monitoring and public assistance.

Police Claim Situation Under Control

The West Bengal Police, in a statement on X (formerly Twitter), said the situation in Suti and Samserganj areas of Jangipur was now under control after dispersing the mob through effective police action. “Traffic has returned to normalcy on the national highway,” police posted.

“Strict action will be taken against those who have resorted to violence. Raids are being conducted to arrest the troublemakers,” the statement read. Authorities also warned against spreading misinformation and urged citizens to avoid rumours and remain calm.

TMC Calls for Calm Ahead of Mamata-Imam Meet

Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Kunal Ghosh appealed to the public for calm, particularly ahead of CM Mamata Banerjee’s scheduled meeting with Imams in Kolkata on April 16.

Also Read: ‘Have faith, nothing will happen in Bengal’: Mamata assures Muslim community amid Waqf concerns

This appeal comes just days after violent protests erupted in Murshidabad on Tuesday, when demonstrators opposing the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 clashed with police. A large crowd had gathered to protest the legislation when tensions flared after police tried to prevent them from blocking a key road.

The confrontation resulted in stone-pelting and vehicle arson, escalating tensions across the region.

Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 Sparks Unrest

The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 was passed by both Houses of Parliament after marathon debates and received Presidential assent from Droupadi Murmu on Saturday. The Act came into effect on April 8.

Opposition parties have since challenged the law in the Supreme Court, citing constitutional concerns. Protests have been intensifying across the state, including a student-led demonstration at Aliah University in Kolkata earlier on Friday.

As tensions continue, the state administration remains on high alert, with law enforcement agencies urging restraint and vowing strict legal action against those fuelling unrest.