West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, addressing the recent violence over the Waqf (Amendment) Act, affirmed the right to peaceful protest but warned against taking the law into one’s hands.

Speaking at the inauguration of a skywalk near Kalighat’s Kali temple, she said" “Everybody has the democratic right to stage a peaceful protest with permission. I will request people not to take the law into their own hands. To protect the law, we have custodians and do not need any demon." She also urged citizens to avoid “non-religious activities in the name of religion” and resist provocation, emphasizing that legal custodians exist to maintain order.

The violence, which began Friday in Murshidabad’s Dhulian, a Muslim-majority area, claimed three lives and injured several during anti-Waqf law protests. Fresh clashes erupted Monday in Bhangar, South 24 Parganas, where Indian Secular Front supporters allegedly attacked police, torching vehicles and injuring officers. Banerjee, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader, condemned such acts, stressing democratic rights come with responsibility.

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She also addressed personal criticism, noting some change her surname or fault her for attending diverse religious events, reflecting her inclusive stance. The Waqf amendment controversy has fueled unrest, with protests turning violent across districts like Malda and Birbhum, prompting internet suspensions until April 15. Over 180 arrests have been made, and 500 families from Dhulian and Samserganj are now in relief camps.

After the event, Banerjee, joined by Mayor Firhad Hakim and Sports Minister Arup Biswas, used the skywalk to visit the Kali temple, offering prayers. Her call for calm seeks to restore peace amid heightened tensions, balancing free expression with public safety.

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