The protests began Friday, with vehicles, including police vans, set on fire, stones thrown at security forces, and roads blocked in Suti, Dhulian, Samserganj, and Jangipur. No new clashes occurred Sunday, and police reported calm.
A senior officer said, “The situation in Suti, Dhulian, Samserganj, and Jangipur areas of the district is peaceful.” They added, “An investigation is underway into the incidents of violence. More arrests are likely.”
Three people died during the unrest. Ijaz Momin, 21, died Saturday from bullet wounds received in clashes at Sajur More, Suti, on Friday. In Jafrabad, Samserganj, Harogobindo Das and his son Chandan Das were found dead Saturday with stab wounds. Eighteen policemen were injured Friday.
Security forces personnel guard in a violence-hit area, in Murshidabad district. Violence erupted in the area following protests over Waqf Act. (PTI Photo)
To maintain order, authorities imposed prohibitory orders under section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and suspended internet services. Security forces are checking vehicles and patrolling sensitive areas.
The Calcutta High Court ordered central forces to deploy quickly, and five Border Security Force (BSF) companies arrived to assist. BSF Inspector General Karni Singh Shekhawat said, “We have sent our five companies to help the police. We have to work along with them in this situation.”
The protests sparked political debate. BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari claimed over 400 Hindus were forced to leave their homes, blaming the Trinamool Congress (TMC) for supporting radicals. He shared videos, including one where a man said his house was burned while police fled.
A torched vehicle during a protest against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, in Murshidabad district. (PTI Photo)
TMC MP Saugata Roy said Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee called a meeting to address Muslim community concerns, stating, “Mamata Banerjee is the leader of the people of Bengal. She knows how to run Bengal.”
BJP MP Jyotirmay Singh Mahato asked Union Home Minister Amit Shah to declare border districts “disturbed areas” under AFSPA, criticizing the state’s response.
DGP Rajeev Kumar visited Samserganj Saturday night to review the situation with senior officers. Police continue to monitor the district to prevent further incidents.
(With input from agencies)
