Just as the situation in Murshidabad began to return to normal, tensions have now engulfed another district in West Bengal — Bhangar in South 24 Parganas — where protesters against the Waqf Act clashed with police and ignited a van along with other vehicles.
Officials reported that the roads were supposedly obstructed by individuals from the minority community.
Footage displayed police motorcycles ablaze and a police bus overturned with its windshield shattered. The videos also displayed numerous police officers situated on the streets.
Officials stated that two individuals have been arrested in relation to the recent incident, while one police officer has been injured.
The police subsequently stated that the circumstances in Bhangar were managed. “Specific cases have been registered against miscreants involved in damaging public property, and raids are ongoing to apprehend them. The public is advised not to heed rumours. Stringent legal action will also be taken against those found spreading misinformation,” it said on X.
The clashes began when supporters of the Indian Secular Front confronted the police in the Bhangar region.
Supporters of ISF were allegedly moving towards Ramlila Maidan in Kolkata to participate in a rally opposing the Waqf law. The party’s MLA, Naushad Siddique, was meant to speak at the rally.
Nevertheless, the police refused to grant approval for the rally to take place. Although the police did not give the green light, the rally took place.
A significant crowd from the Muslim community congregated in Ghatakpukur to demonstrate against the Waqf Amendment Act enacted by the BJP-led government. Law enforcement officers were sent out and barriers were erected as well.
The recent surge of violence occurs just days after Murshidabad experienced tumultuous protests regarding the law last week, resulting in three fatalities and injuries to many, including police personnel. Subsequently, more than 150 individuals were detained in relation to the violence.
The Calcutta High Court had mandated the presence of central forces in Murshidabad and other regions of the state experiencing similar protests to ensure the maintenance of law and order.
