Senior Congress leader Rashid Alvi has accused the BJP-led central government of fueling recent violence in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district, where tensions escalated over the Waqf (Amendment) Act. Alvi alleged that the Act was a direct intrusion into Muslim religious affairs and warned that such interference often provokes widespread unrest.
“There should be no violence, but we must ask who is responsible for turning peaceful protests into chaos,” Alvi said, speaking to IANS. He condemned the BJP for allegedly pushing a divisive agenda and turning a blind eye to the growing unrest. “This law is not just legislation; it’s an infringement on our faith. When any community feels its religious identity is under threat, it reacts,” he added.
Drawing parallels to past incidents of religious strife—including the Golden Temple attack and international controversies—Alvi underscored the gravity of the situation. While urging peace, he emphasized that the BJP must be held accountable for stoking communal tensions.
He also criticized the West Bengal Police for remaining passive during the violent clashes and pointed fingers at the BJP’s history of targeting opposition-led states. “Suppressing democratic protest is as dangerous as violence itself. People must be allowed to raise their voices peacefully,” he stated.
Responding to BJP leaders who hinted at invoking Article 356 in West Bengal, Alvi challenged their communal framing of the issue. “This is not a Hindu-Muslim conflict. It’s a protest against the BJP’s imposition of a law that lacks public consensus. Many Hindus are standing with Muslims in this fight for justice,” he said.
On fears that the situation might escalate further, Alvi remained hopeful but firm. “Democracy means dialogue. Look at the farmers’ protests—the government had to withdraw the farm laws. Similarly, if the Prime Minister truly believes in ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vishwas,’ he must act accordingly and withdraw this Act.”
Meanwhile, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee reaffirmed her government’s stance, declaring on X (formerly Twitter) that the Waqf (Amendment) Act will not be implemented in the state. “We do not support this law. Then what is the riot for?” she questioned.
