Suvendu Adhikari Urges Central Forces Deployment Amid Murshidabad Unrest:

In the wake of escalating violence over the recently enacted Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, Suvendu Adhikari, Leader of the Opposition in West Bengal, has appealed for the immediate deployment of central paramilitary forces to restore order in the affected regions.

Adhikari highlighted the plight of over 400 Hindus from Dhulian, Murshidabad, who, fearing for their safety, fled their homes and sought refuge at Par Lalpur High School in Malda district. He attributed the unrest to "religiously driven bigots" and criticized the state's ruling party, Trinamool Congress (TMC), for its alleged appeasement politics that, according to him, have emboldened radical elements .

More than 400 Hindus from Dhulian, Murshidabad driven by fear of religiously driven bigots were forced to flee across the river & take shelter at Par Lalpur High School, Deonapur-Sovapur GP, Baisnabnagar, Malda.

Religious persecution in Bengal is real.

Appeasement politics of… pic.twitter.com/gZFuanOT4N
— Suvendu Adhikari (@SuvenduWB) April 13, 2025

The situation intensified following violent protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, which came into effect on April 8, 2025. The legislation has faced opposition from various groups who argue that it infringes upon religious freedoms and minority rights . Murshidabad, a district with a significant Muslim population, has been the epicenter of these protests, witnessing incidents of arson, vandalism, and clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement agencies .

In response to the deteriorating law and order situation, the Calcutta High Court, acting on a petition filed by Adhikari, ordered the deployment of central forces in Murshidabad. The court's directive aims to restore peace and ensure the safety of residents amidst the ongoing unrest.

The violence has resulted in at least three fatalities and over 150 arrests. Among the deceased are a father and son who were reportedly attacked by a mob, and another individual who succumbed to bullet injuries . The unrest has also led to the suspension of internet services in the region as authorities attempt to curb the spread of misinformation and prevent further escalation .

West Bengal Governor C. V. Ananda Bose has expressed concern over the situation, welcoming the High Court's intervention and emphasizing the need for immediate action to restore normalcy.

As tensions remain high, the Calcutta High Court has scheduled a further hearing on April 17 to assess the situation and determine additional measures to address the crisis.