Violence-hit Murshidabad returns to normal, schools reopen after 10 days
Times of India | 21 April 2025
A glimpse of Murshidabad violence NEW DELHI: Regular activities in Murshidabad have begun to return to normal under strict security measures following the unrest that occurred in various regions regarding the Waqf Act.
A resident confirmed that educational institutions have started functioning after being closed for 10 days.
"Schools have reopened here after 10 days. Due to the violence on 11th April, schools were closed. The situation in Dhuliyan has improved. There are no problems now. Such an incident never took place here in the past." the resident told ANI.
In related developments, West Bengal Opposition Leader and BJP member Suvendu Adhikari stated on Sunday that the Hindu population faces risks in the state. He requested an NIA investigation into the Murshidabad incidents, attributing responsibility to the state police and describing it as a "brutal killing."
In conversation with ANI, Adhikari stated, "We are constantly working to keep our culture and religion alive. Hindus are under threat in West Bengal. We want NIA. The state police are fully responsible for this kind of brutal killing. Everyone here wants NIA to come and take up the case."
He dismissed Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav's accusations against BJP regarding the violence, stating, "Akhilesh Yadav's statement is politically inspired."
NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar consulted with West Bengal Governor CV Anand Bose at Raj Bhavan on Sunday regarding the disturbances in Malda and Murshidabad.
After the consultation, Rahatkar stated, "I have told the Governor about the condition of women and children. The situation is very serious, and the West Bengal government should immediately take steps to ensure the safety and security of women in the state. The Governor also said that steps should be taken to ensure the safety of women in the state."
Rahatkar emphasised that the NCW aimed to avoid political involvement and concentrate on supporting affected individuals.
"We will make all efforts for the rehabilitation of the victims and accordingly make recommendations (to the West Bengal government) ... Look at how much the Commission works in UP and Manipur as well. We do not want to politicise this issue. We want to stand with the women and families who are in pain," she stated.
Unrest began on April 11 in Murshidabad, a Muslim-majority district, during demonstrations against the Waqf (Amendment) Act. The situation turned hostile, causing two fatalities, numerous injuries, and damage to property. Many residents left their homes seeking safety.
The unrest extended to additional districts, including Malda, South 24 Parganas, and Hooghly, with reports of fire-setting, stone-throwing, and road barriers.