Murshidabad Violence: Three Killed, Over 150 Arrested; Asaduddin Owaisi Responds; Plea to PM Modi on Wakf Law
Asaduddin Owaisi: Following the violence in Murshidabad, West Bengal, sparked by protests against the Wakf law, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi issued his first response. The violence resulted in three deaths and over 150 arrests. Commenting on the events, Owaisi stated that he is not a spokesperson for the West Bengal government and that those capable within the government should answer questions regarding the incident. He condemned the violence, emphasizing his consistent opposition to such acts.
On April 13, 2025, Owaisi questioned the lack of discussion surrounding bulldozer actions in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, contrasting it with the negative reactions to the Murshidabad violence. He cited an instance of a bulldozer being used against a 14-year-old child and noted similar actions taken for sloganeering during India-Pakistan cricket matches.
Appeal to PM Modi on Wakf Law
Owaisi also targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the Wakf law, urging him to reconsider it, claiming it contradicts the constitution. He accused Modi of imposing his ideology on the nation and called for reconsideration. Owaisi characterized the law as anti-national and against the constitution, appealing to the Prime Minister to withdraw it.
BJP Attacks Mamata Government; Central Forces Deployed
Meanwhile, the BJP has continuously attacked West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over the Wakf law. BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari filed a petition in the Calcutta High Court demanding the deployment of central forces in the violence-affected areas, a request the court granted. Following this order, five companies of central security forces have been deployed in Murshidabad and surrounding areas.
Mamata Banerjee's Response
Following the deployment of central forces in the violence-affected areas, Mamata Banerjee appealed for peace, stating that since the central government implemented the law, it should also be responsible for responding to it. She also questioned the rationale behind the riots if the Wakf law was not to be implemented in West Bengal.
