Amid escalating communal tensions in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district, Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari has accused the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) of fostering an environment of religious intolerance through what he described as “appeasement politics.” According to Adhikari, over 400 Hindu residents from the Dhulian area were forced to abandon their homes out of fear and seek shelter elsewhere.
In a post on social media, Adhikari alleged that the displaced individuals crossed a river to take refuge at a school in Malda district. He shared visuals of distressed families and burned-out homes, claiming that law enforcement failed to intervene effectively during the unrest. One individual reportedly said that his house was set ablaze while police officers at the scene fled without taking any action.
The violence reportedly erupted on Friday night during protests against the recently passed Waqf (Amendment) Act, which has sparked strong reactions across the region. Clashes broke out in Murshidabad, resulting in at least three deaths and widespread arson, including the torching of several vehicles. Authorities have since stated that the situation is under control, but tensions remain high.
Adhikari strongly condemned the state government for what he described as a failure to uphold law and order, calling for immediate steps to ensure the safety and resettlement of the displaced. “I urge the Central Paramilitary Forces, the State Police, and the district administration to guarantee the safe return of these displaced Hindus and shield them from religious extremism. Bengal is on fire. The state’s social harmony is in tatters. Enough is enough,” he wrote.
He further alleged that the violence is a symptom of deeper systemic issues rooted in political opportunism. “Religious persecution in Bengal is not fiction—it’s a grim reality. TMC’s vote bank-driven appeasement policies have given rise to radical elements. Today, Hindus are fleeing their own homes in fear. This is a disgraceful failure of governance,” he added.
In response to the unrest, five companies of the Border Security Force (BSF) have been deployed to assist state police in maintaining order. BSF officials emphasized that they were there to provide support and would act in coordination with local law enforcement. “We’re not conducting operations independently. We are supporting the state police and will respond according to their requirements. Our goal is to help restore peace and stability,” said IG Karni Singh Shekhawat of the South Bengal Frontier.
The Calcutta High Court has taken note of the situation and ordered the immediate deployment of central security forces to prevent further violence. The court has also directed both the state and central governments to submit comprehensive reports on the unfolding events. The matter is scheduled for further hearing on April 17, where more details are expected to emerge regarding the causes and consequences of the violence.
As the political rhetoric intensifies and security efforts continue on the ground, the state remains on edge, with community leaders and political parties watching closely for the next developments.
