A major update coming from Murshidabad, West Bengal, which witnessed communal violence that broke out in the wake of the new Waqf law, leading to the deaths of three people. Apart from this, the district also saw attacks on a local MP’s office and police vehicles and the violence was largely fuelled by WhatsApp groups, fake social media accounts, and widespread rumours.
The police have blocked 1,093 social media accounts and arrested 221 individuals so far. According to district officials and police personnel, rumours and provocative messages were circulating on social media and WhatsApp groups prior to the violence. These included inciting content and misinformation.
Murshidabad violence
It all began on April 8, when protests broke out against the newly introduced Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. Several organizations had called for rallies in opposition to the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. Although the protests initially began peacefully, tensions gradually escalated. Protesters blocked National Highway 12, and police jeeps were set on fire. Police firing to control the mob left three young men injured, one of whom, Ejaz Ahmad, later died.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)