Sat Jan 17 09:19:27 UTC 2026: ### Murshidabad Protests Erupt After Migrant Worker’s Death; Journalist Assaulted

The Story:

Fresh unrest gripped Beldanga in Murshidabad district, West Bengal, on Saturday, January 17, 2026, following the death of Alauddin Sheikh, a 36-year-old migrant worker from the area who was killed in Jharkhand. Hundreds of locals blocked National Highway 12, bringing traffic to a standstill and disrupting railway services. Police used force, including baton charges, to disperse the protesters, resulting in injuries and arrests.

The unrest originally started on Friday, January 16, 2026. A female journalist was assaulted, with another journalist attacked on Saturday. Political tensions escalated as BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra highlighted the assault on the female journalist. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stated that migrant workers are being targeted in other states and the “anger of the minorities was justified.”

Key Points:

  • Protests erupted in Beldanga, Murshidabad, on January 17, 2026, following the death of migrant worker Alauddin Sheikh.
  • Protesters blocked National Highway 12 and disrupted railway services.
  • Police used force to disperse the crowd, leading to injuries and arrests (15-20 people arrested, 12+ injured).
  • Two journalists were assaulted during the unrest on January 16 and January 17.
  • BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra condemned the assault on the journalist.
  • Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said migrant workers are being targeted and justified the anger of minorities.

Key Takeaways:

  • The death of a migrant worker in Jharkhand triggered significant unrest in Murshidabad, highlighting the vulnerability and potential for exploitation of migrant labor.
  • The attacks on journalists raise concerns about press freedom and safety during civil unrest in West Bengal.
  • The political reactions, particularly the statements from both BJP and the Chief Minister, indicate the event is being politicized, which could further inflame tensions.
  • The incident showcases the immediate potential for localized events to disrupt transportation and daily life.
  • The Chief Minister’s statement hinting at justification of minority anger is a red flag that requires more in-depth analysis, given the sensitive nature of inter-community relations.

    Read More

Related News: