Bangladeshi Miscreants Involved In Bengal Waqf Violence, Says Home Ministry: Reports

Amid simmering political tensions in West Bengal over massive anti-Waqf outrages, initial probe into the violence reportedly has revealed the involvement of Bangladeshi miscreants in the unrest, the Union Home Ministry was informed, several media platforms reported citing sources.

The probe also reportedly suggested that the TMC-led government failed to monitor situation as unrest gripped Murshidabad district and South 24 Parganas during protests over the Waqf law.

As per media reports, West Bengal has over 80,480 Waqf properties - second only to Uttar Pradesh's 2.2 lakh. Passing of the contentious Waqf Bill has led to witnessed protests in the past few days.

The law, which expands the government's role in regulating Waqf properties, is being seen by a section of the Muslim community as a move to "snatch" their land. The Centre has rejected such claims.

Anti-Waqf Violence In Bengal

The fresh bout of violence in South 24 Pargana's Bhangar erupted days after Murshidabad witnessed violent protests which killed three people while several others were injured. Over 150 people were later arrested in connection with the violence.

Several people fled the district and crossed the river to the adjoining district of Malda, seeking protection and shelter. Visuals from Murshidabad showed houses, shops and other property being burned down by large crowds.

Besides Murshidabad, a fresh violence broke out on Monday between the supporters of the opposition Indian Secular Front (ISF) and the police at Bhangar in South 24 Parganas district, leading to injuries to several people and torching of multiple police vehicles.

According to the officials, police have arrested two people so far while one police personnel has sustained injuries. As per media reports, anti-Waqf protesters clashed with the city police and set a van and other vehicles on fire.

Videos on social media showed how the roads were blocked by those from the minority community.

Videos also depicted police bikes being set on fire while a police bus was turned over with its front glass broken. The videos also showed many police officers present on the streets.

Amid the violence, Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose sought a detailed report from the Trinamool government. The Calcutta High Court has also stepped in, ordering the deployment of central forces in sensitive areas.