Kolkata, 15 April (H.S.) – At least nine individuals have been arrested in connection with the violence that broke out during a protest rally against the Waqf Amendment Act in West Bengal’s Bhangar on Monday. According to Kolkata Police, the arrests were made during late-night raids, with three individuals detained on Monday evening and six more taken into custody later that night.
The arrested individuals face serious charges, including vandalism of public property, inciting violence, and obstructing law enforcement personnel from performing their duties.
The incident occurred during a protest rally organized by the Indian Secular Front (ISF) at Sealdah’s Ramlila Maidan to oppose the Waqf Amendment Act. The rally, led by ISF leader Naushad Siddique, drew a large number of participants. Tensions escalated when police attempted to stop the procession on the Basanti Highway, resulting in clashes between demonstrators and police forces.
Eyewitnesses reported that the situation turned volatile when police erected barricades to prevent the procession from advancing. Protesters allegedly attempted to breach the barriers, sparking a scuffle. The conflict intensified after an ISF supporter sustained a severe head injury, prompting demonstrators to stage a sit-in protest on the highway.
The protest turned violent in Bhangar’s Sonpur area, where some demonstrators, reportedly carrying the national flag, vandalized CCTV cameras and attacked police personnel. Five officers were injured in the assault. A prison van was overturned, and at least five motorcycles were torched.
Following the unrest, police conducted overnight raids in multiple locations, resulting in the arrest of nine suspects. Security has since been tightened in the affected areas, and law enforcement authorities have assured that the situation is now under control.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and senior members of the state government have appealed for calm and urged citizens not to engage in violence. The state administration has also reiterated that strict action will be taken against anyone found responsible for instigating unrest.
Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh
