Imam Delegation Meets Mamata Banerjee Over Waqf Act Disturbances In Murshidabad District
Kolkata, 16th April 2025:Tensions flared in several areas of Murshidabad district following disturbances related to the Waqf Act, prompting a delegation of imams to meet West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday.
The unrest, which began earlier this week, has raised concerns among local residents and religious leaders about the interpretation and implementation of the Waqf Act, leading to heightened security measures and appeals for calm from community leaders.
According to officials, the disturbances started after reports spread regarding administrative actions linked to Waqf properties in Murshidabad. Local police were deployed to sensitive areas to prevent escalation. Community leaders, including Imam Mohammad Salim, 52, of Berhampore, expressed apprehension about the lack of clarity in the Act’s provisions and its potential impact on local mosques and charitable institutions. “People are anxious about the future of their religious trusts. We want the government to address these concerns transparently,” said Mohammad Salim.
In response to the unrest, a delegation of imams from Murshidabad and neighboring districts sought an urgent meeting with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee at Nabanna, the state administrative headquarters.
The delegation conveyed the community’s fears and requested clear communication from the government regarding the Waqf Act’s enforcement. According to Abdul Rahman, 45, imam from Lalbagh, “We urged the Chief Minister to ensure that the rights of the community are protected and to clarify any misunderstandings about the Act.”
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee assured the delegation that the state government is committed to maintaining peace and protecting the interests of all communities. She directed senior officials to review the recent incidents and to initiate dialogue with affected groups. “No one’s rights will be infringed upon, and the government will take all necessary steps to resolve the situation amicably,” Banerjee stated during the meeting.
Meanwhile, district authorities have intensified patrolling in sensitive areas and appealed to the public to avoid spreading rumors. Murshidabad District Magistrate Priya Singh said, “We are closely monitoring the situation and have set up a helpline for residents to report any issues. Our priority is to ensure peace and address genuine grievances.”
The disturbances have also drawn attention from political and civil society groups, with calls for transparent handling of Waqf-related matters. Social activist Farhan Alam, 38, from Jiaganj, emphasized the need for community engagement. “It is essential that authorities involve local stakeholders in discussions to prevent further unrest,” said Alam.
As the situation develops, the state government has scheduled further meetings with community representatives and legal experts to clarify the provisions of the Waqf Act and to address any ambiguities. Security has been stepped up in Murshidabad, and officials have urged residents to maintain harmony and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
The coming days will be crucial as the administration works to restore confidence among the affected communities and ensure that the Waqf Act is implemented without misunderstanding or conflict.
