In response to the explosive violence that erupted across multiple towns in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district last week, the West Bengal Police has formed a nine-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the causes, instigators and extent of the unrest.
The decision comes amid mounting political accusations, public trauma, and demands for a high-level inquiry into the clashes that have left at least three people dead and dozens injured.
The SIT, announced on Wednesday, will be led by an additional superintendent of police from the Intelligence Branch, reported NDTV.
It includes two deputy superintendents representing the Counter Insurgency Force and the Criminal Investigation Department, as well as six inspectors drawn from various specialised divisions, including Cyber Crime and Traffic.
At the heart of the turmoil which erupted on April 11, is the controversial Waqf Amendment Act. It proposes sweeping changes to the management of religious land in India, particularly Waqf properties traditionally used by the Muslim community.
Critics say the law undermines Muslim institutions, while the BJP defends it as a “pro-Muslim reform.”
Protesters, angered over what they claim is discriminatory legislation, clashed with police, vandalised property, torched shops and attacked homes.
Internet services were suspended in affected areas, and the Union Ministry of Home Affairs deployed nine companies (about 900 personnel) of the Border Security Force (BSF) to help restore order. Over 150 individuals have been arrested.
The National Commission for Women (NCW) announced the formation of an inquiry committee to investigate reports of women being assaulted during the violence.
Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar is expected to visit the region, particularly Mandirpara in Dhulian, where disturbing reports of molestation and mass displacement have emerged.
“The violence has led to the exodus of hundreds of women who had to cross the Bhagirathi River for safety,” said the NCW in a statement. “These women are now refugees in their own state, facing trauma and loss.”
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has fiercely criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party, BSF and central government agencies, accusing them of facilitating the violence to polarise communities before the upcoming elections.
Ms Banerjee labelled the unrest “pre-planned,” blaming cross-border infiltration allegedly abetted by BSF personnel.
“Guarding the border is the job of the Centre. The BSF is under the Ministry of Home Affairs. They can’t evade responsibility,” she said.
The BJP, in turn, accused the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) of appeasing minority voters, further fuelling the political divide.
On the ground, the human toll is becoming more visible with each passing day.
A woman who lost both her husband and son during the violence recounted the horror: “They pelted stones, broke down our doors, and attacked us. My family is gone.” The assailants reportedly wore masks.
Senior police officials say the situation in Murshidabad is now under control.
Said Additional Director-General of Police (South Bengal) Supratim Sarkar: “We have opened a 24-hour control room. We request people not to fall for rumours. Anyone in distress can contact us anytime,” he said.
