In Murshidabad, West Bengal, protests against the Waqf law amendment turned violent. A mob pelted stones at a train stationed at Nimtid station and vandalized railway property. Around ten police officers were injured in the violence. To control the situation, Border Security Forces (BSF) were deployed. Following the incident, two trains were canceled and five were diverted. Several passengers were also injured in the attack, and vehicles were set on fire.
Governor C.V. Ananda Bose issued a warning to the protesters and gave strict instructions to the state government to take action against the miscreants in violence-affected areas such as Amtala, Suti, Dhuliyan, Murshidabad, and North 24 Parganas. The Governor also discussed the situation with the Chief Minister. Raj Bhavan confirmed that police forces have been directed to take all necessary measures to restore law and order.
It was also stated that the situation is being closely monitored, a 24×7 control room has been set up, and a dedicated helpline has been established for public assistance. Reports also suggest that the Governor has communicated with Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding the issue.
Meanwhile, ahead of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s scheduled meeting with imams in Kolkata on April 16, Trinamool Congress leader Kunal Ghosh urged the protesters to maintain peace. On Friday, students of Aliah University in Kolkata organized a protest march against the controversial Waqf law amendment.
