The "Nabanna Abhijan" protest in Kolkata has erupted into widespread chaos and violence, with demonstrators and police clashing dramatically. The protest, spearheaded by an unregistered student group, Paschimbanga Chhatra Samaj, is calling for the resignation of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over a deeply disturbing rape-murder case involving a 31-year-old trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.
On Tuesday, tensions soared as protesters, incensed by the incident, began their march towards Nabanna, the state secretariat. The scene quickly devolved into disorder as demonstrators threw stones at police, breached barricades, and climbed over barriers at Howrah Bridge. In response, the police were forced to deploy water cannons, tear gas, and lathicharges to disperse the swelling crowds and prevent them from advancing further towards the secretariat.
The police response has been robust and multifaceted, with over 6,000 officers stationed around key points leading to Nabanna. The authorities have fortified the area with more than 20 barricades, many of which have been treated with oil to deter climbers. Additionally, drones and robocops are monitoring the situation, while Anti-Riot VAJRA vehicles and various specialized police units, such as Heavy Radio Flying Squads (HRFS), Rapid Action Force (RAF), and Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs), are on high alert.
The protest's organizers, including student leaders Prabir Das, Subhankar Halder, and Sayan Lahiri, have insisted that their march is a legitimate demand for justice for the victim and accountability from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. They are also calling for the capital punishment of the accused. However, the West Bengal Police have labeled the protest as "illegal," citing that no permission was sought for the demonstration.
The situation has been further complicated by political accusations. The ruling Trinamool Congress has alleged that the BJP is behind the protest, suggesting that BJP leaders are attempting to incite violence and provoke a severe reaction from police forces. In contrast, the BJP has denied these claims, asserting that while they are not directly involved in organizing the protest, they support the underlying demand for justice.
The controversy surrounding the protest reflects broader political and social tensions. While some groups, including doctors who have been protesting since August 9, and Left student organizations, have distanced themselves from the march, the protest remains a focal point of contention and unrest. The violence and disorder have intensified the spotlight on the broader issues of governance and justice in the state.
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