Waqf protests: Over 150 arrested in Bengal clashes, Centre to assess situation directly

KOLKATA: The protest against the Waqf Amendment Act has turned into a major clash, and high alert continues at Murshidabad in West Bengal. The number of people arrested in the clash has risen to 150. The central government has deployed more BSF jawans in the protest area. The central home secretary will assess the situation directly. The Bengal government has clarified that steps have been taken to prevent the clash from spreading. Meantime, clashes have also started in Tripura against the Waqf Amendment Act.

Three including a father and son, were killed in the clash in Murshidabad. Hargovinda Das and Chandan Das were found hacked to death in their house in Jafrabad. Their house was looted by the assailants. Another person was also found shot dead in Dhulian, Samsarganj. Several people, including policemen, were injured in the clash.

A special bench of the Calcutta High Court has ordered the deployment of central forces in the district in the wake of the violent incidents in Murshidabad. The order was issued on a plea filed by West Bengal Opposition Leader Suvendu Adhikari. Peace must be restored in Murshidabad. The special bench also observed that the court cannot turn a blind eye to the events taking place there. It has directed the state government and the Centre to submit a detailed report on the situation. Further hearing in the case will be held on April 17.