Nine persons arrested in Bhangar violence

Days after violent protests rocked Dhuliyan town in Murshidabad's Jangipur sub-division over the Waqf (Amendment) Act, the situation is reportedly under control, according to officials.

- STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE

However, tension continues to grip the region despite the deployment of central forces, including the BSF and CRPF.

Shops and properties suffered extensive damage during the clashes, with eyewitnesses recounting the chaos. "My entire building has been destroyed. They broke the glass, shattered the wooden windows and doors at the rear, and looted our belongings," said a local shopkeeper.

"They even broke into my shop across the street by forcibly opening the shutter," said a local resident of Betbona in Samserganj.

On Monday, Poila Boishakh (Bengali New Year), shopkeepers in the Shiv Mandir area of Dhuliyan cautiously reopened their stores amid heavy police presence.

Though relieved to be back in business on the auspicious day for opening new account books, many remained apprehensive.

The unrest, which had begun as a protest against the Waqf law amendments, intensified last week with several incidents of arson reported from Suti and Dhuliyan.

Explosions rocked the area as miscreants set multiple houses on fire, spreading panic across villages.

Following a Calcutta High Court order, central forces will remain stationed in the sensitive areas of Murshidabad till 17 April.