Murshidabad, a district in West Bengal, is seeing violent protests after the government passed the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. Parliament approved the law on April 4, and it came into effect on April 8. The new law changes how waqf properties land or assets meant for religious, educational, or charitable use in Islam are managed. These changes have upset many in the Muslim community. As a result, they started protesting, which led to clashes with the police. Now, people are worried that this unrest could harm communal peace in the area.
Background: The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025
The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, passed by both Houses of Parliament and signed by the President on April 5, introduced major changes to how Waqf properties are managed across India. It allowed non-Muslims to join Waqf boards, limited property donations, and changed how Waqf tribunals work. As a result, many critics said the Act hurt religious freedom and minority rights. These changes raised serious concerns, especially within the Muslim community.
Understanding the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025
The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 made major changes to the original Waqf Act of 1995. Here are the key updates:
- The Act allows non-Muslims to join waqf boards. Many people believe this step reduces the religious independence of these boards.
- It puts new limits on donating properties to waqf, which affects a long-standing tradition in the Muslim community.
- It changes how waqf tribunals work and what powers they have. These changes could impact how people solve disputes related to waqf properties.
Critics say these changes reduce the power of waqf boards and give the government more control over religious properties. They believe this move harms the rights of minority communities.
Eruption of Violence in Murshidabad
The amended Act quickly triggered strong protests in Murshidabad, a district with many Muslims. People began protesting in areas like Jangipur, Suti, Dhulian, and Samserganj. Soon, they clashed with the police, set fire to police vehicles, and damaged public property. The violence killed three people and injured several others, including police officers.
As the situation grew worse, the authorities took action. They enforced Section 144 to ban large gatherings and also stopped internet services in the area. This helped stop the spread of false information and prevent more protests.
Meanwhile, on Saturday, a special bench of the Calcutta High Court ordered central forces to move into Murshidabad right away because of the ongoing unrest.
According to a PTI report, hundreds of people left the violence-hit areas and took shelter in Malda to stay safe.
Court Action and Central Force Deployment
Due to the rising violence, the Calcutta High Court stepped in. On April 12, the court ordered the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to move into Murshidabad and help bring back peace. The judges also criticized the state government for not handling the situation well. They stressed the need for quick action to keep people safe.
Political Reactions and Public Sentiment
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee strongly opposed the Waqf (Amendment) Act. She called the law “anti-secular” and accused the central government of trying to weaken minority rights without talking to state leaders. She also promised that her government would not follow the Act in West Bengal.
On the other hand, Governor C.V. Ananda Bose said everyone must follow laws passed by Parliament. He condemned the violence and asked the state government to take strong steps to bring back peace.
Current Status and Outlook
As of April 14, the situation in Murshidabad is still tense but under control, with no new violence. The police are keeping a close watch on the area, and 150 people have been arrested so far.
Final Thoughts
The events in Murshidabad show the deep tensions over the Waqf (Amendment) Act and its impact on minority communities. The ongoing situation highlights the need for open discussions and careful consideration of different viewpoints in India’s diverse society.
The Murshidabad unrest over the Waqf (Amendment) Act shows rising concern about minority rights and religious freedom. Therefore, leaders must step up, start open talks, listen to all sides, and work to restore peace.
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