Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, April 14, 2025, Kolkata: Tensions have escalated in several districts of West Bengal as protests against the newly amended Waqf Act have taken a violent turn, prompting a stern response from Governor C. V. Anand Bose. While peaceful demonstrations are part of democratic rights, recent incidents in parts of Murshidabad, Malda, and South 24 Parganas have raised alarm, with reports of vehicles being set ablaze, bombs being hurled, and law enforcement under attack.
The situation deteriorated sharply on Friday. In Suti and Shamsherganj areas of Murshidabad, the sound of crude bombs echoed through the afternoon, and two people—including a teenager—were reportedly shot during the chaos. The source of the gunfire remains unknown. In Amtala, South 24 Parganas, protestors blocked roads and vandalized a police vehicle, further escalating tensions in the region.
Governor Bose, addressing the unrest through a video message, condemned the violence and made it clear that while the right to protest is protected, rioting and lawlessness will not be tolerated. He expressed concern over what many perceive as selective enforcement, questioning the inaction of police in riot-hit areas while contrasting it with the harsh treatment reportedly meted out to peaceful demonstrators, including unemployed teachers.
In his message, the Governor revealed that he had held a confidential meeting with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee after receiving reports of the violence. Though he did not disclose the contents of the discussion, he emphasized that he had also spoken with Chief Secretary Manoj Pant, who assured him that strict action is being initiated against those responsible.
Governor Bose urged citizens not to take the law into their own hands, affirming that the state is fully prepared to restore order. “Protests are acceptable, but not riots. The law must prevail,” he stated firmly. As the situation remains volatile in some districts, calls for restraint and accountability continue to grow across the civic and political spectrum.