Tensions Surge in North Bengal Amid Waqf Act Protests and Charak Puja Festivities

Agencies and KalimNews, April 15, 2025, SIliguri : Siliguri: Heightened security measures have been implemented across parts of North Bengal, particularly in Siliguri and Malda, following a series of violent clashes linked to protests over the amended Waqf Act. Authorities are on high alert as communal tensions rise amidst the ongoing Charak Puja and Gajon festivals. These protests, which have sparked unrest in local communities, have raised fears of further violence during the traditional religious observances.

The unrest began in Siliguri’s Jyotinagar area, Ward Number 4, when violence erupted early on Monday between two local groups. The altercation, which involved stone-pelting, led to several injuries among residents and significant damage to property. Initial reports indicated that the clashes stemmed from an attack on sannyasis, who were participating in Charak Puja celebrations. The situation worsened the following day, prompting the deployment of a heavy police presence, including the Rapid Action Force (RAF), to maintain order.

By Monday morning, tensions escalated, leading to widespread stone-pelting that resulted in more injuries. Two seriously injured individuals were admitted to Siliguri District Hospital. Commissioner of Police C. Sudhakar, along with senior officers, rushed to the scene to monitor the situation. The police have established a picket and conducted a route march to prevent further violence. Sudhakar assured the public that the situation was under control, urging citizens not to spread rumors that could exacerbate the crisis.

Siliguri’s Deputy Mayor Ranjan Sarkar visited the area and appealed for peace, stressing the need for community harmony. "Charak Puja has been a peaceful tradition here for many years, and such incidents are deeply regrettable," he said. "I urge all residents to cooperate with the police and maintain calm."

Meanwhile, concerns over communal clashes are spreading to other parts of West Bengal, particularly in Malda’s Kaliachak area. Authorities have been using public announcement systems to urge residents to avoid spreading rumors about the violence that has affected Murshidabad. Victims from the region, particularly from Jangipur, have sought refuge in Parlalpur, a village located on the banks of the Ganges in Malda. The local administration has stepped in to provide aid to those displaced by the unrest.

Union Minister of State for Education Sukanta Majumdar has been closely monitoring the situation. He visited the control room in Dakshin Malda, established by the BJP to assist the displaced victims, and personally distributed relief materials. During his visit, he also expressed concerns over the escalating violence and called for a swift resolution.

In an effort to maintain peace, several members of the VHP (Vishva Hindu Parishad) and affiliated organizations have staged protests outside police stations across Siliguri, urging the authorities to prevent any further demonstrations against the amended Waqf Act. Protests have been planned for mid-April, with Darjeeling MP Raju Bista writing to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, urging her to prevent a potential rally by the group Noor-e-Mujassam, which has been linked to previous instances of communal unrest. Bista claims that external elements are being mobilized for the rally, and he warned that the group’s past actions could further inflame tensions in the region.

Meanwhile, the protests against the Waqf Act have continued to grow across the state. In Cooch Behar, thousands gathered at Raas Mela Ground to oppose the amendments, emphasizing that their movement was in defense of the Indian Constitution and not directed against any particular religion. Local political figures have urged restraint, with Malda MLA Sabina Yeasmin calling on residents, particularly the youth, to avoid violence while expressing their dissent.

As tensions mount in Siliguri, the police are bracing for potential further unrest. Local political leaders, including TMC Deputy Mayor Ranjan Sarkar and BJP’s Sanlcar Ghosh, have visited the affected areas, urging residents to uphold peace during the festivities. As the situation remains volatile, authorities continue to work to prevent any escalation that could disrupt the peaceful celebrations of Charak Puja and Gajon.

The unrest linked to the Waqf Act amendments has left communities divided and fearful, with many looking to both local and national leaders for guidance and intervention. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the situation will be contained or if further violence will ensue.