In the aftermath of the April 11 violence in Murshidabad, local residents have spoken out against the unrest triggered during protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, which led to the deaths of three individuals, several injuries, and widespread damage to homes, shops, and temples.
Residents across religious communities are calling for peace and normalcy, while blaming outsiders for instigating the violence in what is otherwise described as a peaceful, close-knit town.
“Whatever has happened here is wrong. In the name of opposing the Waqf Act, houses of Hindus and temples have been vandalised,” said Ujjwal Gupta, a local.
“All Hindus and Muslims stay together here. If someone comes from outside and incites riots, it is wrong,” he added.
Another resident, Sadakat Ali, echoed similar sentiments:
“People here stay peacefully together… Some came from outside and vandalised both Hindu and Muslim homes, and looted shops. We want to stay peacefully.”
Zulfikar Ahmed, also a local, strongly denounced the violence and the protest itself:
“We do not support the protest that was organised that day. The looting and hooliganism in the name of the Waqf protest are not good. We want peace restored.”
🛑 Security Situation and Law Enforcement
- The Calcutta High Court ordered additional deployment of security forces in the affected areas.
- According to officials, the situation is now under control.
- The West Bengal Police confirmed that 150 people have been arrested so far in connection with the violence.
- Areas like Samserganj, Dhuliyan, and other hotspots in Murshidabad remain under heightened police vigilance.
🔥 Background: Why the Violence?
The Waqf (Amendment) Act, passed recently in Parliament, has sparked tensions in several areas of West Bengal, including Murshidabad, a region with a history of communal harmony but also political sensitivities.
What started as a protest against the Act escalated into communal violence, leading to casualties and significant damage to property.
📢 The Local Message: Peace Over Politics
Despite the unrest, the overwhelming message from Murshidabad’s residents remains one of unity and reconciliation.
Residents have asked political groups and outside elements not to disrupt their harmony:
“Let us live peacefully, like we always have,” one resident told media.