Violent protests have rocked Beldanga in West Bengal's Murshidabad district since Friday, January 16, 2026, following the alleged murder of a migrant worker, Alauddin Sheikh (also identified as Alai Sheikh), in neighbouring Jharkhand. Sheikh, a resident of Sujapur Kumarpur gram panchayat area, was found dead in his rented accommodation in Jharkhand, where he worked as a hawker or scrap dealer. The family of the deceased vehemently denies that it was a suicide, alleging that Alauddin was brutally beaten to death and his body was subsequently hanged to stage it as a suicide. They further claim that he may have been targeted and harassed for being Bengali or on suspicion of being a Bangladeshi national. Upon the arrival of Sheikh's body in his native village, enraged locals took to the streets, initiating widespread protests. Demonstrators blocked National Highway 12 and railway tracks in the Sealdah-Lalgola section, burning tyres and causing extensive traffic and train disruptions for several hours. The protests also saw incidents of stone-pelting, resulting in injuries to at least 12 people, including journalists covering the unrest. Police and Rapid Action Force personnel were deployed, resorting to baton charges in some instances to disperse the agitated mobs and restore order. The incident has sparked significant political reactions. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee condemned the violence and appealed for peace, while also remarking on the alleged targeting of migrant workers from Bengal in other states and linking it to the 'anger of the minorities.' Opposition leaders, including those from the BJP, criticized the state government's handling of law and order and accused the ruling party of instigating unrest. Trinamool Congress General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee also reportedly spoke with Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, urging swift action in the case. This incident highlights growing concerns over the safety and security of migrant labourers from West Bengal in other parts of India.