Fresh violence erupted in Murshidabad, West Bengal, over opposition to the Waqf Act, leaving a 12-year-old child and a 21-year-old youth injured by gunfire. This article provides updates on the incident, police actions, and calls for an NIA investigation.
Murshidabad Violence: Violence flared up again in the Shamsherganj area of Murshidabad district, West Bengal, in protest against the Waqf Act. Late Saturday evening, a 12-year-old child and a 21-year-old young man sustained serious gunshot injuries during the unrest. According to locals, the situation deteriorated rapidly during the protest, and firing was heard. Both injured individuals were rushed to Jangipur hospital for treatment.
Vandalism at Railway Station; Suvendu Adhikari Demands NIA Probe
Leader of the Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari, bly condemned the violence. He posted on X (formerly Twitter) stating that the vandalism at railway stations was not a spontaneous protest but a premeditated conspiracy. He appealed to the central government to order an investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). He also wrote to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw demanding strict action against those responsible for damaging railway property.
118 Arrests; Appeal to Avoid Social Media Rumors
So far, 118 people have been arrested in connection with the violent demonstrations. Police reported that around 15 police personnel and 10 civilians were also injured during the violence. A large contingent of police and RAF forces have been deployed in Shamsherganj and the surrounding areas. The administration appealed to the public to remain calm and ignore rumors circulating on social media.
Adhikari Accuses Jihadi Elements; Calls it an Attack on Democracy
Suvendu Adhikari refused to characterize the violence solely as opposition to the Waqf Act, instead calling it a planned act of anarchy. He alleged that jihadi elements were attempting to create a climate of fear and challenge the government and democracy through this violence. He demanded that the perpetrators be identified and brought to justice swiftly.
