Murshidabad, West Bengal — April 13, 2025: Tensions have reached a boiling point in West Bengal as protests against the new Anti-Waqf Law spiraled into large-scale violence, forcing over 400 Hindus to flee their homes, according to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders. With lives lost, vehicles torched, and several injured, the situation in Murshidabad and adjoining areas continues to deteriorate despite the imposition of prohibitory orders and suspension of internet services.
Violence Claims Lives, Triggers Exodus
The flashpoint came in Murshidabad, where three people lost their lives amidst clashes between protestors and law enforcement. BJP leader and Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari alleged that the violence was targeted and communal in nature. He claimed that over 400 Hindus were “forced” to abandon their homes in Murshidabad and Dhulian due to threats and attacks.
“Is this what Bengal has come to? Hindus can’t feel safe in their own homes anymore,” Adhikari said in an emotionally charged statement.
BSF Deployed as Calcutta High Court Intervenes
Responding to the rising unrest, the Calcutta High Court stepped in on Saturday, observing that the state machinery had failed to control the law and order situation. The court ordered the deployment of central paramilitary forces, specifically the Border Security Force (BSF), to curb the violence.
Initially, four BSF companies were rushed in. By Sunday, an additional five companies were deployed, especially in Murshidabad, Suti, and Samsherganj, where large crowds were gathering and violent incidents were on the rise.
“Several of our jawans sustained minor injuries during the unrest in Ghospara. We had to resort to controlled firing when our vehicles were set ablaze,” said BSF DIG Nilotpal Kumar Pandey.
BJP Demands AFSPA in Troubled Districts
In a strong political escalation, BJP MP from Purulia, Jyotirmay Singh Mahato, wrote to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, demanding the imposition of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in Malda, Murshidabad, Nadia, and South 24 Parganas, citing a grave security threat and alleged targeted violence against the Hindu community.
Political War of Words: Tarun Chugh vs. Mamata Banerjee
In perhaps the most controversial statement yet, BJP national secretary Tarun Chugh compared West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to Mohammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan.
“She is doing the work of the Muslim League,” Chugh said. “By compromising the safety of Hindus for minority appeasement, she is dividing Bengal like Jinnah once divided India.”
Prohibitory Orders and Internet Shutdown Continue
To prevent further escalation, Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) has been invoked in the violence-hit areas. Internet services remain suspended since Saturday, leaving residents cut off and anxious.
What Lies Ahead?
As Bengal simmers, the people—especially those displaced—are hoping for peace, protection, and justice. The state government is yet to release an official statement addressing the claims of forced displacement or the demand for AFSPA.
The next few days will be critical for Bengal’s social fabric. Will peace return? Or will political and communal tensions continue to rip through the heart of the state?
FAQs on Bengal Anti-Waqf Law Protests
What is the Anti-Waqf Law and why are there protests in Bengal?
The Anti-Waqf Law refers to a legislative move aimed at regulating waqf properties more strictly. In Bengal, the law has sparked massive protests, especially from groups who claim the law targets the Muslim community. The protests have escalated into violence in certain districts like Murshidabad.
How many people have been affected by the violence?
According to BJP leaders, over 400 Hindus have been forced to flee their homes in Murshidabad and Dhulian due to threats and violence. Three people have died, and multiple vehicles, including police vans, were torched.
What actions has the Calcutta High Court taken?
The Calcutta High Court has directed the deployment of central paramilitary forces, stating that the measures taken by the state government were insufficient to control the law and order situation.
Has the BSF been deployed in Bengal?
Yes, initially four companies of BSF were deployed, and later five more companies were added to violence-hit areas like Murshidabad, Suti, and Samsherganj to contain the unrest.
Why is there a demand for AFSPA in Bengal?
BJP MP Jyotirmay Singh Mahato has urged the Union Home Ministry to impose the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in districts like Malda, Murshidabad, Nadia, and South 24 Parganas, citing a breakdown of law and order and targeted violence against Hindus.
Is internet service still suspended in affected areas?
Yes, as of now, internet services remain suspended, and Section 163 of the BNSS (Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita) is in effect in several districts to prevent further escalation.
What is the BJP’s criticism of Mamata Banerjee?
BJP leader Tarun Chugh has controversially compared CM Mamata Banerjee to Mohammad Ali Jinnah, accusing her of minority appeasement and ignoring the safety of the Hindu community.
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