Murshidabad Violence: Court Orders Forces to Restore Peace

The Calcutta High Court has asked for Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to be sent to Murshidabad district in West Bengal. This action comes after violence erupted, which some say is linked to protests against a new law called the Waqf (Amendment) Act. Tragically, two people were killed and over 100 others were arrested.

A group of judges, led by Justice Soumen Sen, decided to send the CAPF to help restore calm in affected areas of Murshidabad. They instructed both the state and national governments to provide detailed reports regarding the situation. The next court hearing is set for April 17.

The special court was formed quickly to address a request by Suvendu Adhikari, who leads the opposition in the West Bengal Assembly. He wanted central forces to control the unrest in the district. Seven groups of Border Security Force (BSF) were sent to places like Suti, Dhuliyan, and Samserganj, which were the worst hit. However, Adhikari’s lawyer claimed that the BSF was not being used effectively to manage the chaos.

The violence reportedly started due to protests against the Waqf Bill. Sadly, two victims—a father and his son—were found in their home in Jafrabad with fatal stab wounds. They were taken to the hospital but were pronounced dead. Family members believe that robbers harmed them before escaping. Investigators are currently looking for those responsible.

In a different incident on the same day, another person was shot and injured in Dhulian. Police have been patrolling and checking areas to keep the peace. So far, 118 people have been arrested due to the protests. This number might go up since clashes have led to injuries, including 15 police officers.

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill was introduced and passed in Parliament earlier this month and became law after the President approved it on April 5. While some groups are protesting against this law, the BJP party has started a campaign to share the benefits of the Waqf Act with the Muslim community, which will run from April 20 to May 5.