12 more arrested in violence that erupted in West Bengal over Wakf law
Twelve more people were arrested on Sunday, April 13, 2025, in connection with the violent protests over the Wakf (Amendment) Act in West Bengal's Murshidabad district that left three people dead. No fresh incidents of violence were reported and the situation remained peaceful in Suti, Dhuliyan, Samserganj and Jangipur areas as security forces kept a strict vigil. Prohibitory orders have been imposed under Section 163 of the Indian Civil Security Code (BNSS) and the internet has been shut down to prevent the spread of fake news. Summary of key developments: Arrests and raids: Twelve more people were arrested overnight, taking the total number of arrests to 150. Raids continued and investigation into incidents of violence is underway. Security measures: Security forces are checking vehicles on main roads and patrolling sensitive areas to maintain order. Prohibitory orders and internet shutdown: Prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the BNSS have been imposed in violence-hit areas and the internet has been shut down to prevent rumours from spreading. Peaceful areas: The situation was reported to be peaceful in Suti, Dhuliyan, Samserganj and Jangipur areas, where no fresh incidents of violence were reported.
High Court order: The Calcutta High Court ordered the deployment of central forces in Murshidabad, saying it "cannot turn a blind eye" to the violence.
Chief Minister's appeal: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee appealed for peace and reiterated that the state government does not support the Waqf Act and will not implement it.
BJP's stand: BJP leaders, including Suvendu Adhikari, have criticised the state government's response and demanded deployment of central forces in other affected districts.
Background: Violence and casualties: Violence erupted during a protest against the Wakf (Amendment) Act on Friday, April 11, 2025, leaving three people dead, including a father and son who were hacked to death. At least 15 policemen were injured and several vehicles were torched. Spread of violence: Unrest also spread to other districts, including Malda, South 24 Parganas and Hooghly, with incidents of damage to public property and clashes with the police. Government response: Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan held a video conference with West Bengal officials to review the situation. The state government has deployed 23 special officers in the affected areas and top police officer Rajiv Kumar conducted a route march in the violence-hit areas. Current situation: Peace and security: As of Sunday, April 13, 2025, the situation in Murshidabad is peaceful and a strong presence of security forces remains. Investigation and arrests: Authorities are continuing their investigation, and more arrests are expected. Public appeal: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and police officials have urged the public to remain calm and not believe rumours circulating on social media. This summary provides a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in the Waqf Act protests in West Bengal, with a focus on recent arrests and the current security situation in the affected areas.