‘Barbaric beyond belief’: Bengal Governor slams Murshidabad riots, vows Centre’s intervention

West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose visited the violence-hit district of Murshidabad on Saturday amid escalating tensions linked to protests over the Waqf (Amendment) Act. During his visit, the Governor described the on-ground situation as “bizarre” and “barbaric,” following the mob killing of a father-son duo that has shocked the region and drawn national attention. His remarks mark one of the strongest condemnations from a constitutional authority in response to the communal unrest that erupted earlier in April 2025.

Bose met with the grieving family members of Harogobindo Das and Chandan Das, who were allegedly lynched by a mob in Jafrabad. Their bodies were discovered with multiple stab wounds, underscoring the severity of the attacks. The Governor offered condolences and assured the victims’ families that he would personally raise the matter with the central government to ensure justice and security.

The violence in Murshidabad—widely considered a flashpoint in the state—emerged from growing unrest over the Waqf (Amendment) Act, which has drawn sharp criticism from several community groups. Critics argue that the Act infringes upon property rights and religious freedoms, leading to weeks of protests, particularly in Muslim-majority regions. Over the course of April 8–13, at least three people have died and more than 60 FIRs have been filed, with 274 arrests made in connection with the violence.

What triggered the violence in Murshidabad?

The unrest stems from widespread opposition to the central government’s Waqf (Amendment) Act, which seeks to revise regulations around the administration of Waqf properties. The act has been interpreted by some as curtailing minority rights, especially in terms of community-held property management. Although West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee assured that the legislation would not be implemented in the state, tensions have continued to rise. The protests escalated into violence in several towns, including Berhampore and Jafrabad.

Communal tensions intensified when mobs began targeting homes and local businesses, leading to significant property damage and the displacement of dozens of families. Many sought temporary refuge in neighbouring Malda district. To contain the fallout, the state administration suspended internet services in affected areas to prevent the spread of inflammatory content.

What did Governor Bose say during his visit?

Governor Bose’s visit to the affected district was aimed at assessing the on-ground realities. After meeting with families of the deceased, he described the atmosphere as “tragic and lawless,” and termed the attacks as “unacceptable in a civilised society.” He stated that the matter would be escalated to the Union Home Ministry and stressed the need for central intervention to maintain law and order.

During his interactions with locals, several residents demanded the immediate deployment of Border Security Force (BSF) personnel to provide long-term protection. The Governor reportedly assured the community that he would convey their request to the appropriate central authorities and facilitate coordination between state and central enforcement bodies.

Political fallout and competing narratives

The violence in Murshidabad has intensified the political blame game between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC). While the BJP has accused the TMC of failing to maintain law and order and protecting extremist elements, the TMC has alleged that external forces are fueling communal tensions for political gain ahead of the 2026 state elections. Both parties have stepped up public engagements in the district in recent days.

Further complicating matters, the Calcutta High Court has directed the deployment of central paramilitary forces to assist with restoring order, citing insufficient local policing in riot-affected zones. The National Commission for Women has also sent a fact-finding team to investigate reports of violence against women during the riots. Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar met with displaced families and promised central assistance.

The situation in Murshidabad continues to impact the socio-political climate in West Bengal. Sentiment on the ground remains tense, with distrust of both state authorities and local law enforcement. The state government’s stance—that the Waqf law will not be applied—has done little to calm protestors, many of whom view the legislation as symbolic of a broader erosion of minority rights.

From a political standpoint, the violence has reinvigorated the BJP’s campaign in Bengal, with party leaders demanding President’s Rule and stricter enforcement action against those inciting communal violence. The opposition is also leveraging the unrest to spotlight what they call a “failure of governance” under Mamata Banerjee’s leadership.

Looking ahead: Can peace be restored in Murshidabad?

Restoring calm in Murshidabad will likely require a multipronged approach, involving both state and central coordination. Legal reforms, community outreach, and enhanced policing are critical to address the root causes of the violence. Experts believe that unless the government initiates a structured dialogue around the Waqf Amendment and its perceived implications, unrest could continue to simmer, especially in sensitive districts.

The Governor’s intervention, while largely symbolic, has placed added pressure on the Mamata Banerjee government to act decisively. As investigations continue and FIRs mount, the situation in Murshidabad serves as a warning of the volatility that policy changes—especially those touching on religion and property—can trigger in politically charged environments.