Clashes Erupt Over Waqf Amendment Act in Jangipur; Section 163 Imposed, Internet Suspended

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Murshidabad: Tension gripped the Jangipur subdivision in Murshidabad district on Tuesday after a protest against the Waqf (Amendment) Act turned violent, prompting swift administrative action. Authorities imposed Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and enforced prohibitory orders in the Raghunathganj and Suti police station areas for 48 hours, starting from 6 p.m. Tuesday. Internet services in the region were also suspended as a precautionary measure to prevent the circulation of provocative content.

The unrest began when a large crowd gathered on National Highway 12 to demand the repeal of the recently passed Waqf Amendment Act. The demonstration soon escalated into chaos as protestors reportedly began pelting stones at the police and torching police vehicles. Several law enforcement officials sustained injuries during the confrontation.

To regain control, police personnel carried out baton charges and fired tear gas shells to disperse the mob. Multiple individuals were detained for their involvement in the violence. A senior district police official confirmed that several vehicles, including police jeeps, were damaged or set ablaze during the clash.

Following the incident, West Bengal Police issued a public statement informing that the situation had been brought under control and normalcy had been restored on the highway. Authorities also warned of strict legal action against those involved in violence or spreading false narratives online.

The political fallout was immediate. State Mass Education Extension Minister Siddiqullah Chowdhury criticized the police response, particularly the use of force on what he claimed was a peaceful protest. Chowdhury, who also heads the West Bengal Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind, accused the administration of disproportionately targeting minority communities.

On the other hand, West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose stressed the need for maintaining law and order, urging the administration to take decisive action against anyone attempting to create unrest. He emphasized that peace and public safety must not be compromised under any circumstances.

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