Hundreds Flee Across Ganga as Murshidabad Violence Triggers Mass Panic; Mamata Banerjee Calls for Calm

DHULIAN (West Bengal): Fear and uncertainty have gripped Bengal’s Murshidabad district. This follows days of intense communal clashes over the new Waqf law. What began on Friday night escalated into deadly violence that left three dead, several injured, and hundreds displaced.

The worst-hit areas span a 7-kilometer stretch of mixed-population neighborhoods in Dhulian, where tensions have simmered for days. As hostilities flared, entire families fled their homes, fearing for their lives. On Sunday, hundreds of panic-stricken residents crossed the Ganga in small boats. They were primarily women, children, and the elderly. They aimed to seek shelter in Baisnabnagar, Malda. A local school has been converted into a temporary relief center for those who managed to escape.

Although no fresh incidents were reported on Sunday, the damage had already been done. Police and BSF helplines were overwhelmed with SOS calls from both Hindu and Muslim residents seeking protection.

Among the missing are two young men—Mizanur Rehman and Suleman Sk—who were allegedly abducted during the chaos. Shamsher Nader, a 27-year-old local, remains hospitalized after being shot.

In Jatrabad, tragedy struck Pompa Das’s home. A mob hacked to death her husband Chandan, aged 40, and father-in-law Hargobindo, aged 74, on Friday night. Both men were artisans who made clay idols. Tears filled Pompa’s eyes. Her children clung to her side. Pompa said, “They stormed into our house… we had nothing to do with any of this. Why us?”

CM Mamata Banerjee’s Response

Responding to the violence, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee condemned the incidents and appealed for unity. “This is not the Bengal we know. I urge people from all communities to maintain peace. Do not fall into the trap of communal provocation,” she said during a press briefing in Kolkata on Sunday.

She assured strict action against those responsible and promised additional security deployment in the affected areas. “We will not spare anyone found guilty, regardless of religion or political affiliation. Our government stands by the victims, and relief measures have already begun,” Banerjee added.

Banerjee also alleged that certain groups were deliberately trying to incite tension ahead of the elections. “These are calculated attempts to disturb the peace of Bengal. We will expose those behind this and ensure justice is delivered.”

Meanwhile, opposition leaders have criticized the state administration. They claim that lapses in law enforcement allowed the situation to spiral out of control. Central forces have been placed on standby while the state police continue flag marches to maintain order.

For now, the people of Dhulian wait in anguish—many displaced, others grieving—and all longing for a return to peace.