Violent protests have rocked Beldanga in West Bengal's Murshidabad district for two consecutive days, leading to at least 30 arrests by the police. The unrest was initially sparked by the suspicious death of Alauddin Sheikh, a migrant worker from Beldanga, in Jharkhand, with his family alleging murder despite initial reports of suicide. Tensions escalated further following rumors of another migrant worker from the district being assaulted in Bihar. On Saturday, January 17, 2026, large crowds blocked National Highway 12 and railway tracks, disrupting essential road and rail connectivity. The mob engaged in vandalism, pelting stones at police, damaging vehicles, shops, and railway infrastructure, including level-crossing gates. Murshidabad Superintendent of Police (SP) Kumar Sunny Raj stated that police were compelled to use lathicharge and tear gas to disperse the violent crowds after negotiations failed. SP Raj confirmed that 30 individuals have been arrested from the spot, and authorities are actively reviewing video footage and social media to identify and apprehend other participants involved in the violence. The protests also saw several journalists assaulted while covering the agitation, drawing condemnation from authorities. The incident has drawn significant political attention, with leaders from various parties commenting on the deteriorating law and order situation. Additional police and Rapid Action Force personnel have been deployed to maintain strict vigil and prevent further escalation, with prohibitory orders potentially in place.