Bengal Government Assures Calcutta High Court of Controlled Situation in Violence-Hit Murshidabad

The West Bengal government has assured the Calcutta High Court that the law and order situation in violence-hit Murshidabad is under control.

During a hearing on April 17, 2025, a division bench comprising Justices Soumen Sen and Raja Basu Chowdhury reviewed a petition filed by Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, who alleged that bomb blasts occurred during communal riots in the district. Adhikari urged the court to hand over the investigation to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), citing concerns over the severity of the violence.

The state government submitted a report stating that adequate measures had been taken by the police and administration to restore order. The government also informed the court that several displaced families had begun returning to their homes, while others remained in relief camps set up in Malda district.

Meanwhile, the Centre’s legal representative requested an extension of the deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) in Murshidabad, citing the sensitivity of the situation. Currently, 17 companies of central forces are stationed in Suti, Samserganj, and Dhulian, the worst-affected areas.

The violence erupted during protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, leading to clashes between communities. Reports indicate that three people were killed, and hundreds were displaced as mobs set fire to shops, vehicles, and police kiosks. The West Bengal Police has arrested over 180 individuals in connection with the unrest.

The Supreme Court has also expressed concern over the situation, calling the violence “very disturbing”. The court is currently reviewing petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, which has sparked protests across the state.