Jangipur in Murshidabad district of West Bengal remains tense following Tuesday’s violent protests against the Waqf Act. In response to the unrest, a heavy police presence has been established, and the local administration has enforced Section 169 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), along with an internet shutdown.
Security personnel have been patrolling sensitive areas, informing residents about the prohibitory orders in place. BNS restrictions will remain in effect till 6 pm on Thursday in areas under the jurisdiction of the Raghunathganj and Suti police stations while internet services will remain suspended across the Jangipur police district until Friday.
VIDEO | West Bengal: People hold protest against Waqf (Amendment) law in Jangipur, Murshidabad. Protest turned violent as they allegedly vandalised a police vehicle and set it on fire.
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(Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvqRQz pic.twitter.com/GUu0RsrQQo
The violence erupted during demonstrations involving thousands of students and youths associated with Islamic organisations. National Highway 12 was blocked, causing major disruption to road connectivity between North and South Bengal.
When police attempted to disperse the crowd, violence broke out. Protesters allegedly hurled stones at the police and set a police vehicle ablaze. To regain control, police resorted to baton charges and deployed tear gas. Several people from both sides were injured during the clash.
Since the incident, security has been tightened in sensitive zones, particularly around Jangipur town. The state police have stated that the situation is now under control, and legal action is being taken against those responsible for the violence. Authorities have also appealed to the public to refrain from spreading misinformation or rumours.
Meanwhile, Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader and West Bengal cabinet minister Siddiqullah Chowdhury criticised the police action, claiming that “there was no such situation which warranted lathi-charging from the police”.
Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury echoed similar sentiments, accusing the police of aggravating the situation and calling for the deployment of paramilitary forces. Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari also demanded paramilitary forces.
Trinamool MP from Jangipur Khalilur Rahman, meanwhile, appealed for peace. In a video message from Delhi, he said, “Youth can make mistakes. I request their guardians to please control them. TMC has protested the Waqf Amendment Bill in the parliament and it will continue.”
West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose also issued a statement, citing the peaceful celebration of Ram Navami as evidence that the administration is capable of maintaining order. He urged the state government to take firm steps to ensure peace and stability.
