Subhechcha Ganguly 
West Bengal witnessed a wave of violent protests over the controversial Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, leading to the deaths of at least three individuals and injuries to dozens, including police personnel. The unrest, concentrated in Murshidabad district, prompted the Calcutta High Court to order the immediate deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to restore order.
Clashes broke out on Friday night in Samserganj, Suti, and Dhuliyan, with mobs torching vehicles, attacking residences, and engaging in pitched battles with law enforcement. Among the deceased are Haragobindo Das (65) and his son Chandan Das (40), reportedly dragged from their home and killed, and 25-year-old Ezaz Ahmed, who succumbed to bullet injuries.
Over 138 individuals have been arrested so far. Viral videos circulating on social media show rioters vandalizing government offices, looting retail outlets, and blocking the National Highway. Police responded with lathi-charges and tear gas to contain the violence.
The High Court criticized the state government’s delayed response and directed central force deployment in any other district witnessing similar violence. Protests have also spread beyond Bengal—Kailashahar in Tripura saw violent clashes during a rally on Saturday, leaving multiple people, including journalists, injured.
The Waqf (Amendment) Act, which seeks to reform the management of Islamic charitable trusts, has emerged as a flashpoint in several Muslim-majority areas. Authorities have appealed for peace and promised strict action against those inciting unrest.
