Waqf Act: Is Mamta Banerjee Playing With Fire? After Murshidabad Violence, Didi to Meet Muslim Clerics on Waqf Amendment Bill

Security has been significantly tightened outside the Netaji Indoor Stadium in Kolkata ahead of a crucial meeting chaired by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The Chief Minister is scheduled to hold talks with Muslim clerics and religious leaders of the Muslim community to discuss concerns surrounding the Centre's proposed Waqf Amendment Act.

#WATCH | Security tightened outside Netaji Indoor Stadium in Kolkata, where West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee will hold a meeting with Muslim clerics and religious leaders of the Muslim community regarding the Waqf Amendment Act. pic.twitter.com/73PjKmXt0U

— ANI (@ANI) April 16, 2025

Is Mamata Banerjee Playing With Fire? 

The meeting comes in the backdrop of recent unrest in Murshidabad, where tensions flared over apprehensions related to the new amendment. Banerjee’s decision to directly engage with religious leaders is seen as an attempt to address community concerns and prevent further escalation.

After Murshidabad Violence, Didi to Meet Muslim Clerics on Waqf Amendment Bill

Heavy deployment of police personnel and barricading has been put in place around the venue, with senior officials monitoring the security arrangements. Entry is strictly restricted to invited religious leaders and dignitaries.

The Waqf Amendment Bill, introduced by the central government, has sparked protests in several parts of the state, with critics alleging that the new provisions may interfere with the autonomy of Waqf boards and affect religious institutions’ control over their properties.

Political analysts believe Mamata Banerjee’s outreach may also have electoral undertones, as the Muslim community constitutes a significant vote bank in West Bengal. Her proactive approach, however, has drawn criticism from opposition parties, who accuse her of playing identity politics.

The outcome of the meeting is expected to influence the political discourse around the Waqf Amendment Act in the coming days.