West Bengal governor visits Malda to meet victims of Murshidabad violence

West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose on Friday left for Malda district to visit victims of the recent violence that broke out in Murshidabad during protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. The clashes, which occurred on April 11, resulted in the deaths of three individuals, several injuries, and widespread property damage. Many affected residents have since taken shelter in Malda, prompting the governor’s visit to the relief camps.

“I am going to the field,” Bose told PTI, indicating his intent to directly assess the situation. A senior Raj Bhavan official mentioned that the governor might also travel to Murshidabad after completing his visit to Malda. “The HG will also review the situation there himself. He may also visit those affected by the violence,” the official added.

This visit comes despite Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s appeal to the governor to postpone his trip to the sensitive area. The chief minister emphasized the state government’s commitment to relief and rehabilitation, announcing ₹10 lakh compensation to the families of the deceased, reconstruction of damaged houses, and support for shop owners who suffered losses.

Banerjee also referenced a Supreme Court directive asking all parties to maintain status quo until the next hearing. “Let the confidence be built first,” she said, urging the governor to delay his visit.

In parallel, the National Commission for Women (NCW) chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar is also scheduled for a two-day visit to Malda and Murshidabad to evaluate the ground situation and hear the grievances of women in relief camps. “We have received reports that women are not being treated properly. We will look into those concerns as well,” Rahatkar said.

The NCW has taken suo motu cognizance of the April 11–12 violence and has formed an inquiry committee to investigate the incidents. Rahatkar’s visit will include meetings with displaced women, camp authorities, and local officials to assess conditions and compile a detailed report.

With both the state and central representatives on the ground, tensions remain high in the region as authorities attempt to stabilize the situation and deliver justice to the affected.