Murshidabad is currently experiencing communal tensions over waqf act bill. On Monday Mamata Banerjee made a renewed appeal for calm and peace. She stressed that religion should not be used to carry out 'irreligious games' and urged the public not to take the law into their own hands, while upholding the right to protest.
"One shouldn’t play irreligious games with religion. Dharma means devotion, affection, humanity, peace, amity, culture, harmony, and unity. Loving human beings is one of the highest expressions of any religion. We are born alone, and we die alone, so why fight? Why the riots, war, or unrest?" Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said, as violence spread from Murshidabad to other parts of West Bengal. Banerjee emphasized that love for fellow human beings is key to overcoming all challenges and called for solidarity with those who face attack or oppression, irrespective of their background or religion.
The Chief Minister further stated, "Everyone has the right to hold peaceful protests with permission. But I urge everyone, irrespective of who they are, not to take the law into their own hands. We have custodians of the law; we do not need those who operate outside it. This is why I request that when someone tries to incite you, do not fall for the trap." She continued, "Those who keep their minds calm amid all provocation are the real winners. That is real victory."
Violence Erupts in Murshidabad and Bhangar
Massive violence erupted on Friday in the Muslim-majority Murshidabad district’s Dhulian area, during protests over the amended Waqf Act. Three people were killed, and several others were injured in the clashes. In a new round of violence over the same issue, protesters clashed with the police on Monday in Bhangar, South 24 Parganas district. The clash led to multiple injuries and the torching of several police vehicles.
Banerjee’s Stance on the Waqf Act
Following the violence in Murshidabad, Banerjee firmly stated that the Waqf Act would not be implemented in West Bengal and called for peace. "Remember, we did not make the law over which many are agitated. The law was made by the central government. So, the answer you seek should be directed to the central government. We have made our position clear we do not support this law. It will not be implemented in our state. So, what is the riot about?" she questioned. West Bengal police reported that the situation in Murshidabad is gradually returning to normal, with shops reopening and displaced families starting to return to their homes.