Bengal anti-Waqf protests: 3 killed, 150 arrested; BJP claims Hindus fleeing homes

Scenes of destruction emerged throughout Murshidabad district in West Bengal, which was affected by violence on Sunday, as paramilitary troops roamed the empty streets. The area continues to be tense after the violent demonstrations caused by the Waqf Act.

In reaction to growing disturbances, the Calcutta High Court mandated the stationing of paramilitary troops in the district’s most critical zones. The court, recognizing reports of extensive vandalism across multiple districts, stressed that it could not “ignore” the developing situation.

Following the violent protests, images emerged depicting locals escaping Murshidabad via boat, trying to navigate the river into adjacent Malda in search of safety. The unrest, which ignited after Friday prayers, continued into a second day. Authorities confirmed that at least three individuals lost their lives in the confrontations. On Sunday, officials detained twelve additional individuals after overnight operations, raising the total number of arrests to 150. Authorities reported that the situation had stabilized in the Suti, Dhulian, Samserganj, and Jangipur areas.

Leader of the Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari criticized what he called Mamata Banerjee’s appeasement tactics, asserting that it has strengthened “radical elements.” He also claimed that over 400 Hindus have been expelled from Murshidabad during the unrest. Conversely, Banerjee advocated for harmony, charging “certain political parties” with trying to manipulate religious feelings for their own political advantage.

In addition to about 300 BSF personnel currently present in the violence-affected Murshidabad, five additional companies have been sent in response to the West Bengal government’s request. Following the Calcutta High Court’s directive, paramilitary troops have been stationed in highly sensitive regions such as Suti and Shamsherganj. Members of the central forces conducted nighttime patrols in the impacted regions and engaged with the families of the victims.