Waqf Protests In Bengal: 'Act Will Not Be Implemented','Don't Incite Riots' Says CM Mamata Amid Escalating Tension

In view of the escalating protests in the state over the implementation of Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the state, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday asserted that it would not be implemented in the state.

Earlier also Banerjee assured the minority community members that she would protect them and their properties in the state after the Gazette of India issued a notification on Wednesday stating that the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, has come into force.

West Bengal's several districts including Malda, Murshidabad, South 24 Parganas and Hooghly witnessed massive carnage on Friday where vehicles, including police vans, were set on fire, stones were hurled at security forces, and roads were blocked as violence as protest intensified over the new legislation on Friday.

What Did CM Banerjee Say?

Taking cognisance of the escalating outrage over the Waqf Bill, the chief minister urged the people to stay calm and maintain harmony. She also asserted that legal action would be taken against those inciting riots.

"My sincere appeal to people of all religions, please remain calm, remain restrained. Do not engage in any irreligious behaviour in the name of religion. Every human life is precious; do not incite riots for the sake of politics. Those who are inciting riots are harming society," she said in a post on X.

"Remember, we did not make the law over which many are agitated. The law was made by the central government. So the answer you want should be sought from the central government," the CM said.

"We have made our position clear on this matter -- we do not support this law. This law will not be implemented in our state. So what is the riot about," she asked.

"We do not condone any violent activity. Some political parties are trying to misuse religion for political gain. Do not give in to their persuasion," she said.

"I think religion means humanity, goodwill, civilisation and harmony. I appeal to everyone to maintain peace and harmony," she added. 

Violence In Bengal's Murshidabad Over Waqf Bill

More than 110 people were arrested in connection with the violence that broke out in the Muslim-dominated Murshidabad district of West Bengal during a protest over the Waqf (Amendment) Act, police told PTI.

On Friday, protests in Murshidabad's Suti area turned violent when demonstrators defied prohibitory orders, blocking roads, pelting stones at security personnel, and setting police vans and public buses ablaze during a procession, as per the reports.

At least 10 policemen were also injured while trying to control the mob.

Several vehicles, including police vans, were set on fire, stones were hurled at security forces, and roads were blocked as violence rocked Malda, Murshidabad, South 24 Parganas and Hooghly districts over the new legislation.