Bengal Waqf Violence: Probe Hints at Bangladeshi Miscreants

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

An initial probe into the Bengal Waqf violence is underway.
Sources suggest involvement of Bangladeshi miscreants in the unrest.
The Union Home Ministry has reportedly been informed about these findings.
Mamata Banerjee’s government faces accusations of failing to monitor intruders.
The violence resulted in three deaths and several injuries in two districts.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

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Bengal Waqf Violence: Initial Probe Suggests Bangladeshi Miscreants’ Role

An initial investigation into the large-scale Bengal Waqf violence that recently shook West Bengal has pointed towards the involvement of Bangladeshi miscreants. According to sources, this information has been conveyed to the Union Home Ministry. This development raises serious questions about cross-border elements potentially fueling unrest within the state.

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Probe Findings and Government Accusations
The probe also reportedly found shortcomings in state surveillance. It suggests the Mamata Banerjee-led government failed to adequately monitor these alleged intruders. This lapse occurred as unrest flared in Murshidabad district and South 24 Parganas. Protests against the Waqf law triggered the violence. Tragically, this Bengal Waqf violence claimed three lives. Several other people sustained injuries during the clashes.

Context: The Waqf Law and Protests
West Bengal holds a significant number of Waqf properties. There are over 80,480 such properties in the state. This figure is second only to Uttar Pradesh, which has 2.2 lakh. Widespread protests erupted after the passage of the new Waqf law earlier this month. The law expands the government’s role in regulating these properties. A section of the Muslim community views this as an attempt to “snatch” their land. However, the Central government has firmly rejected these claims. The ongoing Bengal Waqf violence stems from these differing interpretations.

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How the Unrest Unfolded
Protests against the Waqf law turned violent quickly. In Suti and Samserganj areas of Murshidabad district, chaos erupted. Several shops and vehicles were set ablaze. Homes belonging to local residents were ransacked. Since the unrest began on April 11, a large number of locals have fled these areas. Murshidabad, a district bordering Bangladesh, has a significant Muslim population (66% per the 2011 Census). The violence then spread to Bhangar in South 24 Parganas district on Monday. A protest led by the India Secular Front (ISF) against the Waqf law turned violent there. Clashes broke out between protesters and police when the procession was stopped from heading to Kolkata. Vehicles were set on fire during this phase of the Bengal Waqf violence.

Official Responses and Judicial Action
Amid the escalating violence, West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose intervened. He sought a detailed report from the Trinamool Congress government. The Calcutta High Court has also taken cognizance of the situation. The court ordered the deployment of central forces in sensitive areas to restore order. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee appealed for calm. She assured the public that the contentious legislation would not be implemented in the state. Her statement aimed to de-escalate the tensions surrounding the Bengal Waqf violence.

Current Status and Arrests
Police action has followed the violence. Authorities stated that a total of 210 people have been arrested so far. These arrests are connected to the incidents of violence across the affected districts. Police officials also mentioned that the situation in Murshidabad was gradually returning to normal. However, the investigation into the root causes and perpetrators of the Bengal Waqf violence continues. The deployment of central forces is expected to aid in maintaining peace.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

Probe into Bengal Waqf violence suggests possible role of Bangladeshi miscreants.
Sources informed MHA; state govt accused of failing to monitor intruders during protests.
Violence over Waqf law hit Murshidabad & South 24 Parganas, killing 3.
Governor sought report; Calcutta HC ordered central forces deployment.
CM Mamata Banerjee appealed for calm; 210 arrested in connection with the unrest.