New Delhi [India], April 15 (ANI): Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) leader Malook Nagar on Tuesday said that Central security forces must be deployed in West Bengal if the TMC government fails to control the law and order situation in the state.

Speaking to ANI, Nagar expressed concern over several violence incidents occurring in West Bengal following the passage of newly amended laws on Waqf.

'Now, if a state government is struggling to maintain law and order, and it appears that the local police force is inadequate, then it becomes the responsibility of the Central government to deploy national security agencies to restore order. This ensures that arson or violence that could result in loss of life or property is prevented. If the Centre is acting to protect people, it should be welcomed. If the head of a state government has an issue with this, I fail to understand why, as this is a matter of public interest and security,' he said.

On West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's stance against implementing the Waqf Amendment Act, Nagar added, 'Refusing to implement central legislation in a state amounts to a violation of the law. Things should not function in this manner.'

Earlier on Monday, members of the Muslim community protested against the Waqf Amendment Act in Bhangar, South 24 Parganas, leading to violence.

In a post on X, Kolkata Police said, 'The situation in Bhangar is completely under control. Specific cases have been registered against miscreants involved in damaging public property, and raids are ongoing to apprehend them. The public is advised not to heed rumours. Stringent legal action will also be taken against those found spreading misinformation.'

The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, came into force on April 8. After a 12-hour discussion, the Upper House cleared the bill with 128 members voting in favour, whereas 95 members voted against the legislation.The act aims to modify the Waqf Act, 1995 and the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2013.

The 1995 act and the 2013 amendment laid out rules to govern the Waqf properties in India; created special courts (called Waqf Tribunals) with powers similar to civil courts (Tribunal decisions cannot be challenged in civil courts); and prohibited the sale of Waqf properties.

The newly amended act on Waqf has become a contentious issue, with critics arguing it undermines the autonomy of Muslim religious endowments. The protests have turned violent in some areas, resulting in casualties and injuries. (ANI)