Tensions escalated in Kolkata on Tuesday as protests demanding justice for the alleged rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College turned violent. The ‘Nabanna Abhijan’ march, organized to express outrage over the incident and pressure the West Bengal government, saw demonstrators clash with police at Santragachi in Howrah.
The protestors, having assembled at Santragachi before moving from College Square in Kolkata, climbed onto and broke through police barricades. They also dragged away the barricades, prompting a forceful response from the police. Water cannons, lathi charges, and tear gas were deployed to disperse the crowds.
Prior to the protest, heavy security measures were put in place around the West Bengal state secretariat, anticipating potential unrest.
Meanwhile, BJP leader Gaurav Bhatia seized the opportunity to criticize Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. He accused her of being a dictator and demanded a CBI investigation into the case, even calling for a polygraph test of both Banerjee and the Police Commissioner. Bhatia stated that the truth should not be suppressed and that the ongoing issue would be raised strongly.
The protests, which continued at Howrah Bridge, have highlighted the public’s anger and demand for accountability in the wake of the tragic incident at RG Kar Medical College. The situation remains tense, with the potential for further unrest and demonstrations in the coming days.
