Murshidabad Communal Clashes Ease; Police Maintain Heavy Vigil

Kolkata: Law enforcement officials reported that calm has returned to the previously unrest-hit regions of Murshidabad, particularly Suti, Samserganj, Dhulian, and Jangipur. A senior police official told PTI on Monday that the situation is now peaceful and firmly under control.

Prohibitory measures under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) continue to be enforced in these sensitive areas. Streets appeared deserted and most shops remained shuttered as residents chose to stay indoors.

Authorities have suspended internet services in the affected localities while conducting intensive vehicle checks along major roads. Since violent protests erupted on Friday over the Waqf (Amendment) Act, three people have died and several others were injured. However, no new incidents have been reported as of Monday.

Police confirmed that 180 individuals have been arrested in connection with the violence so far. “The overall environment in Murshidabad is stable. No fresh disturbances have occurred. Security forces remain deployed, and we are committed to maintaining peace,” the officer said.

Personnel from the Border Security Force (BSF), Rapid Action Force (RAF), and state armed police conducted route marches along highways and inner roads to deter any further unrest.

Despite the heavy security presence, local markets and streets remained largely empty. Many residents stayed indoors amid ongoing tensions.

At least 18 police officers sustained injuries during the clashes and are currently receiving medical treatment across various hospitals. The violence saw several vehicles—including police vans—torched, stones hurled at security personnel, and multiple kiosks and shops set ablaze.

In a humanitarian response, hundreds of displaced individuals have reportedly crossed the Bhagirathi River into neighboring Malda district. The local administration has provided temporary shelter in school buildings, organized food supplies, and stationed volunteers at riverbanks to assist incoming families.