National Desk
16 April
Sandeep Dhand
Journalist Research Analysist
Two public interest litigations have been filed in the Supreme Court seeking a court-monitored investigation into the recent violence in West Bengal linked to the new Wakf (Amendment) Act. The violent incidents took place on April 14 in the Bhangar area of South 24 Parganas district, where protests against the amended Wakf law turned violent.
One petition was filed by advocate Shashank Shekhar Jha, requesting the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the violence. Another petition was filed by advocate Vishal Tiwari, who appealed for the establishment of a five-member judicial commission led by a retired Supreme Court judge to investigate the incidents.
The petitioners have also asked the Supreme Court to direct the state government to submit a report on the violence and ensure the safety of people and their property. The recent clashes have raised serious concerns about law and order in the state.
According to police, the situation in Murshidabad — the area hit by violence earlier — is now largely under control. On April 11 and 12, communal clashes broke out in parts of the Murshidabad district, mainly in Suti, Samserganj, Dhuliyan, and Jangipur. At least three people died, and hundreds were displaced due to the unrest.
In response to the violence, the Calcutta High Court recently ordered the deployment of central forces in affected areas of Murshidabad. The protests erupted over alleged issues in the amended Wakf law, which some groups believe could harm their rights and properties.
The Supreme Court is expected to review these petitions soon, which could lead to further legal and political developments in the state.