The Supreme Court of India is scheduled to hear two petitions on April 21, 2025, concerning the recent communal violence in Murshidabad, West Bengal. The petitions, filed by advocates Shashank Shekhar Jha and Vishal Tiwari, request a court-monitored Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into the incidents and seek an explanation from the West Bengal government regarding the alleged failure of law and order. The bench comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice N. Kotiswar Singh will preside over the hearing.

Background of the Violence

The violence erupted on April 11, 2025, in the Muslim-majority district of Murshidabad during protests against amendments to the Waqf Act. The unrest led to the deaths of at least three individuals and displaced hundreds. The turmoil extended to neighboring districts, including Malda, South 24 Parganas, and Hooghly, involving incidents of arson, stone-pelting, and road blockades.

Governor's Response

West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose visited the affected areas and condemned the violence as "barbaric." He emphasized the need to restore normalcy and public confidence in the region. During his visit, he interacted with victims who had taken shelter in relief camps and assured them of justice and support.

Involvement of National Commissions

The National Commission for Women (NCW) and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) have taken cognizance of the situation. The NCW, led by Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar, is conducting a two-day visit to assess the impact of the violence on women and inspect rehabilitation efforts. The NHRC has dispatched a fact-finding team to Malda to investigate the incidents and is expected to submit a detailed report within three weeks.

Political Reactions

The visit of Governor Bose to the affected areas, despite Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's request to postpone it, has drawn criticism from the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC). TMC MP Sougata Roy accused the Governor and the visiting commissions of attempting to create unrest in the region.