On Tuesday, Kolkata and nearby Howrah saw significant violence as protests erupted over the alleged rape and murder of a junior doctor at RG Kar Medical College. The protests, part of the ‘Nabanna Abhijan’ rally, turned chaotic when demonstrators clashed with police, leading to injuries and arrests.
Violence During the Protest
The confrontation began when protestors tried to march to the West Bengal state secretariat, Nabanna. Police intervened with water cannons and tear gas as demonstrators pelted stones and damaged barricades. Senior officers and several protestors were injured, with 15 Kolkata Police personnel and 14 state police officers hurt. Over 200 individuals were arrested.
BJP Calls for 12-Hour Statewide Strike
In response to the police action, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has called for a 12-hour strike across West Bengal on August 28. BJP leaders, including state president Sukanta Majumdar, criticized Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s government for its handling of the protests and accused it of failing to protect women. The BJP condemned the police’s use of force and demanded Banerjee’s resignation.
CBI Intensifies Investigation
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has intensified its probe into the rape and murder case. They are seeking permission to conduct a polygraph test on Kolkata Police assistant sub-inspector Anup Dutta, suspected of providing favors to the accused, Sanjay Roy. Additionally, the CBI will consult forensic experts from AIIMS to verify DNA and forensic evidence.
Political Tensions Escalate
The protests have heightened political tensions between the BJP and the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC). The BJP has accused Chief Minister Banerjee of shielding the perpetrators and called for polygraph tests on Banerjee and Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Goel. The TMC has countered, accusing the BJP of orchestrating violence and disrupting order.
Governor Criticizes Police Actions
West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose expressed concern over the violence, condemning the state’s use of force against peaceful protesters. Bose criticized the disproportionate response and stressed the need for unity in addressing the government’s actions.