Big story of the week: Waqf Act Fury (Protests and Violence in West Bengal)

Recent unrest in Murshidabad, West Bengal, stemmed from protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. This legislation, intended to modernize Waqf property management through measures like non-Muslim board members and increased state oversight, sparked concerns among some Muslim groups about religious autonomy. On April 8, 2025, these protests escalated into violence, involving road blockades and clashes with police, resulting in reported fatalities and numerous arrests. Consequently, authorities deployed central forces and suspended internet services to manage the tense situation. Political reactions have varied, with the state government asserting non-implementation of the act, while opposition parties criticize the handling of the events. As of April 12, 2025, the area remained under close watch despite no new violent incidents being reported.