Bengal Waqf Protest: 'They Want A Sense Of Security', Says Governor After Visiting Violence-Hit Murshidabad

West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose on Saturday visited violence-hit Murshidabad and met with the victims of the anti-Waqf violence that erupted on April 11during protests against the Waqf Amendment Act and stated that the victims want to have a 'sense of security'.

As per reports, Governor Bose said that he would discuss the demands of the victims with both the central and state governments and emphasised the need for 'proactive steps' to address their concerns. Moreover, the governor also said he will visit more places and meet with the affected people.

"It is a bounden duty of all concerned authorities, particularly the government, to instill confidence in people first. Second, take care of them and address their needs, and thirdly, give them a sense of security. Fourth, make them feel that justice will be done. Lastly, establish peace", the governor said.

“I have talked to people here, and they have complaints about the state government. I have provided them with a number so that they can directly contact my office. Restoring peace in the area is my only goal. I will also ask the state government to take appropriate action,” the Governor told media persons after interacting with the family members of Late Hargobindo Das and Chandan Das, the father and the son killed in violence at Samserganj area in Murshidabad last week.

"They (victims) want to have a sense of security and certainly some other demands or whatever suggestions given by them. All this will be considered. I will take it up with the Government of India and the state Government for appropriate action. I'll follow it up. I once asked them to feel free to talk to me directly. The phone number has also been given. We'll be in touch with them. Certainly, very effective proactive steps will be taken", he said. 

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.

Taking cognisance of the outrage in Bengal, CM Mamata Banerjee  urged people not to fall prey to any provocation. “Everybody has the democratic right to stage a peaceful protest with permission. I will request people not to take the law into their own hands. To protect the law, we have custodians and do not need any demon", she said, as per PTI.