Three dead in violent protests in Kolkata over Waqf Amendment Law

Tensions flared in Kolkata on Monday as protesters set fire to police vehicles and blocked major roads in response to a controversial land law that many believe discriminates against Muslims.

The unrest followed a violent weekend in West Bengal's Murshidabad district that left three people dead.

According to local authorities, violence broke out in Murshidabad on Saturday when Muslim demonstrators, angered by the law, set shopping malls ablaze, attacked a Hindu residence, and stabbed two individuals. In response, internet services in the district were suspended to curb further escalation.

The situation escalated further on Monday in Kolkata’s Bhangar area, where police attempted to halt a protest rally. Clashes broke out, and a major highway was blocked by demonstrators.

At least two police vehicles were set on fire during the protests.

The anger centers around a newly passed federal law that significantly alters the management of large swathes of land previously reserved for exclusive Muslim use.

Critics argue the move is part of a broader pattern of marginalization under the Hindu nationalist government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Read more: 30-year-old madrasa demolished, 170 sealed in India amid crackdown on Muslim institutions

Muslim organizations and opposition political parties claim the law is the latest in a string of policies aimed at alienating the Muslim minority. While the government defends the law as a “pro-Muslim reform”, many in the community see it as yet another attempt to erode their rights and autonomy.

In the political crossfire, Modi’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has blamed the Trinamool Congress (TMC)—which governs West Bengal—of “Muslim appeasement” for electoral gain. The TMC has rejected the accusations, alleging that the BJP is deepening religious divisions for political advantage.

Authorities have called for calm as law enforcement remains on high alert. The situation continues to develop, with further protests likely in the coming days.