Murshidabad Violence: Over 200 Arrested; Tensions Rise In Bhangar Over Waqf Act Protests

Police have arrested over 200 people in connection with recent violence in parts of the Murshidabad district, West Bengal.

A senior police official confirmed the arrests on Monday.

Violent protests erupted last week over the newly-introduced Waqf (Amendment) Act. Protesters reportedly targeted Hindus in several areas.

Additional Director General (Law & Order) Javed Shamim said the situation in Murshidabad and Malda has improved.

“We are conducting regular route marches. Senior officers are on the ground. Shops and businesses have started reopening,” he said.

Police have suspended Internet services in some areas to stop the spread of rumours.

Officials said some groups from outside the state are trying to create panic.

Authorities have started helping displaced residents return home.

Meanwhile, fresh tension broke out in Bhangar in the South 24 Parganas district on Monday.

Supporters of the All India Secular Front (AISF) clashed with police.

Police stopped AISF members from reaching their protest venue in Kolkata. The protest was against the Waqf (Amendment) Act.

AISF supporters blocked the Basanti Highway in protest. The blockade disrupted traffic. Police repeatedly urged them to move, but they refused.

AISF MLA Nausad Siddique blamed the police. “They created tension to distract people from the school job scam. We will fight this legally,” he said.

Siddique referred to the Supreme Court’s order that cancelled 25,753 school jobs. He called the police action unnecessary and deliberate.

Also Read: PM Modi Reaffirms Commitment To ‘Viksit Haryana, Viksit Bharat’ At Hisar Rally