By The Sampadak Express
Three people, including a father-son duo, were killed in Waqf-related violence in Murshidabad’s Samserganj area of West Bengal, prompting the Calcutta High Court on Saturday to order deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to restore peace.
The victims, identified as Harogobindo Das, his son Chandan (stabbed to death in Jafrabad), and 21-year-old Ijaz Momin (died of bullet wounds in Suti), were caught in the clashes that erupted over protests against the Waqf Act.
A special bench of Justices Soumen Sen and Raja Basu Chowdhury, formed following a petition by Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, emphasized the need to ensure law and order, directing both the state and Centre to file detailed reports. The matter will be heard again on April 17.
Violence broke out on Friday after large crowds gathered post-Friday prayers and protested against the Waqf Act, blaming the central government for its enactment. Protesters blocked NH-12, set vehicles ablaze, and clashed with police, injuring at least 10 officers. Security forces used lathicharge and tear gas to disperse the mob, with some personnel forced to take shelter in a mosque.
So far, 118 arrests have been made.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee distanced her government from the legislation, stating, “This law was made by the central government. We do not support it, and it will not be implemented in Bengal.”
The unrest continued into Saturday in Dhulian, where another person suffered bullet injuries. The BJP slammed the state government for inaction, alleging minority appeasement and warning of a tougher stance if the party came to power.
