Kolkata, 15 April (H.S.) -West Bengal Police have arrested two individuals in connection with the brutal killing of a Hindu father and son during last week's violence in the Shamsherganj area of Murshidabad district. The victims, identified as Hargobind Das and his son Chandan Das, were murdered amidst widespread unrest over the Waqf (Amendment) Act.

The protests, which erupted across Murshidabad district, turned violent last week, with the killings in Shamsherganj further intensifying communal tensions in the region.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, South Bengal Additional Director General of Police, Supratim Sarkar, confirmed the arrests. “One suspect was apprehended late Monday night from the Murarai area of Birbhum district, and the other was arrested Tuesday morning from Suti in Murshidabad,” he said. Both suspects were caught following overnight search operations.

While the police have not publicly disclosed their identities, officials confirmed that the two are cousins.

The accused were produced in the district court on Tuesday, where the prosecution sought police custody for further investigation.

Meanwhile, the situation in sensitive areas like Jangipur, Shamsherganj, Dhuliyan, and Suti has shown signs of gradual improvement since Tuesday morning, coinciding with the Bengali New Year. Many local shops reopened after a week-long shutdown, although public movement remains limited.

To restore confidence, Central Armed Police Forces and state police continue to conduct regular route marches in the affected areas. However, internet services remain suspended in parts of Murshidabad, Malda, and Birbhum districts as a precautionary measure.

According to police, more than 200 people have been arrested so far in connection with the violence and acts of vandalism. Authorities are maintaining strict surveillance to prevent further escalation and ensure the restoration of normalcy.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh