'We're facing losses': Fish traders hit hard by Murshidabad violence

Following violence during protests against the Waqf Amendment Act in Murshidabad, central forces have been deployed. Local businesses, particularly fish sellers, are struggling due to closures. Jangipur SP Ananda Roy reported over 273 arrests and stated the situation is improving, with shops reopening and displaced residents returning from shelter homes.
'We're facing losses': Fish traders hit hard by Murshidabad violence
NEW DELHI: Central forces have been deployed in West Bengal's Murshidabad following violent protests against the Waqf Amendment Act on April 11 that resulted in three deaths, multiple injuries, and widespread property damage, leading to the arrest of 273 accused individuals while local businesses struggle to resume operations.
The local fish sellers have expressed concerns about their livelihoods due to the five-day business closure caused by the unrest.
"Our business has been closed for the past five days because of the violence. We're facing losses. Today, we came back to work. We heard about the violence, but we want peace. If we don't work, we can't earn money," said Nephaur Rahman, a fish seller.

Another fish seller, Motibur Sheikh, shared similar concerns: "We have come here today after violence. We heard about this incident last Friday and that's why we didn't come earlier. We have faced loss in the last few days. We want peace."
Poll
Do you believe that the deployment of central forces was necessary in this situation?

Jangipur SP Ananda Roy confirmed that the situation is now under control and improving steadily.
"A total of 273 accused have been arrested. The situation here is under control; it is improving every minute. The shops are open, and the public is roaming freely. It is almost normal. The day before yesterday. Around 20 people returned here from the Malda shelter home. Today, around six families have returned, and the remaining will be returning very soon. Some people have been detained in the father-son murder case," said Roy.
The West Bengal Police reported that 150 people have been arrested in connection with the violence, with adequate police forces deployed in Samserganj, Dhuliyan, and other affected areas of Murshidabad.
Approximately 20 people have returned from the Malda shelter home, with six families recently returning to the area.
The Waqf Amendment Act has been a contentious issue in the region, leading to protests that turned violent on April 11.
The local shops have reopened, and public movement has resumed in the area as the situation continues to normalize.
author
About the Author
TOI City Desk

The TOI City Desk is an indefatigable team of journalists dedicated to bringing you the pulse of cities from across the nation, all day and all night. Our mission is to curate, report, and deliver city news that matters to readers of The Times of India. With a keen focus on urban life, governance, culture, and local issues, we provide a comprehensive view of the ever-evolving cityscapes. Our team works tirelessly to keep readers informed about the latest developments, ensuring that they are connected to the heartbeat of cities across India, right when it happens. The TOI City Desk is a trusted source for staying in touch with the local stories that shape your world.

End of Article
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA