Increasing Radicalisation Leaves Bengal's Murshidabad Burning

In many states, where the situation is seen as sensitive, the local police had increased patrolling in select areas and increased its interaction with the community representatives to sensitize them about the Waqf Act. This was, however, not done by the West Bengal police in an 'efficient and professional' manner.

- ABHINANDAN MISHRA

The failure of the West Bengal police and state administration to deter and control any violence which takes a communal shape has a very strong potential of attracting ultra-Islamic groups that have become stronger in the neighbouring Bangladesh post August 2024.

The border between Bangladesh and West Bengal stretches approximately 2,217 kilometres, making it the longest segment of the India-Bangladesh border.

The violence in Murshidabad began when some individuals from one community, protesting the Waqf Amendment Act, initiated attacks on police personnel and vandalized public property, while taking part in a rally. Over time, these incidents escalated and took on a communal dimension, further intensifying tensions in the region.

The violence, which has claimed three lives and resulted in the arrest of over 200 individuals, has caused significant displacement in the Muslim-majority Murshidabad district. Many affected residents have crossed the Bhagirathi river to seek refuge in the neighbouring Malda district amidst the communal unrest.

Among the places that have been affected by the violence are Dhulian, Suti, Samserganj and Jangipur of Murshidabad. As per the 2011 census, more than 67% of the population in these areas follow Islam. This number now, as per officials, is likely around 75%.

The dead includes 21-year-old Ijaz Ahmad who died from bullet injuries sustained in Suti during clashes allegedly instigated by Social Democratic Party of India members, while Hargobindo Das and his son Chandan Das were killed by a mob of around 150-200 armed individuals in Jafrabad village of Samserganj subdivision, with brothers Dildar Nadab and Kalu Nadab arrested in connection with their murder.