Three people have died in West Bengal after protests erupted over a controversial new land law. The unrest began on Saturday in Murshidabad district, where Muslim protesters set fire to shopping malls, attacked a Hindu home, and stabbed two individuals. In response, authorities suspended internet services to prevent further escalation.
By Monday, the violence spread to the Bhangar area of Kolkata. Clashes broke out when police blocked a protest rally. Demonstrators also shut down a major highway, leading to widespread traffic disruption and public panic.
At the core of the unrest is a new law passed by India’s parliament earlier this month. The legislation restructures the management of land historically reserved for Muslim communities. Many protesters believe the law threatens minority rights and deepens religious divisions.
Muslim groups and opposition parties argue that the law reflects a broader pattern of discrimination under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government. They claim several of Modi’s policies marginalize India’s Muslim population. However, the government has denied these accusations, calling the new law a “pro-Muslim reform” aimed at improving land administration.
Political tensions have also intensified. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused West Bengal’s ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) of appeasing Muslim voters for political gain. In return, the TMC denies the claim and accuses the BJP of trying to polarize the population on religious lines.
The situation remains volatile. Authorities continue to monitor sensitive areas to prevent further violence and maintain public order.
