Education – Kolkata Protest Violence Triggers Political Row Over Attack on Journalists
Education –A political controversy intensified after violence erupted during a student demonstration in Kolkata, with leaders demanding strict legal action against those accused of attacking journalists and police personnel.
Union Minister of State for Education Sukanta Majumdar on Monday alleged that a student protest held in Kolkata had been taken over by violent elements, resulting in attacks on journalists and disruption of public order. Addressing the media, he claimed that individuals associated with “goons and hooligans” infiltrated the demonstration, which had been organised by Left and ultra-Left groups, leading to assaults on reporters covering the event. He added that the police had already begun taking action and said those responsible would face legal consequences.
Union Minister Accuses Violent Elements of Hijacking Rally
Majumdar maintained that the demonstration, originally presented as a student movement, lost its peaceful character after unruly groups allegedly entered the gathering. He condemned the reported attacks on media professionals and members of the public, stating that violence against journalists could not be tolerated.
He also criticised what he described as appeasement politics, asserting that anyone involved in the alleged assaults would be held accountable under the law. According to the minister, protecting journalists and ensuring public safety should remain a priority during any public demonstration.
State Government Details Investigation
Speaking in the West Bengal Assembly a day after the incident, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said police had registered seven criminal cases in connection with the violence. He informed the House that investigators had identified nearly 70 individuals believed to have participated in the disturbances.
The Chief Minister stated that the protest had begun peacefully but claimed the situation changed after groups from areas including Metiabruz, Khidderpore and Belgachia allegedly joined the gathering. According to him, these individuals attacked police personnel as well as journalists who were covering the event.
Adhikari also confirmed that written complaints had been received from media representatives regarding the alleged assaults. He stressed that authorities were working to determine the sequence of events and identify everyone involved.
Police Identify Several Suspects
During his statement, Adhikari said investigators had identified several suspected participants in the violence, including individuals named Afroz, Nahid, Tanveer, Rahul and Jamal. He noted that the police investigation was continuing and further legal action would depend on the findings.
The Chief Minister also alleged that the rally had been convened by Dedipya Ganguly, whom he described as someone who had earlier received support from Left organisations. According to Adhikari, the protest was organised by student and youth groups including DYFI and SFI before the violence broke out after the arrival of alleged miscreants.
Injured Journalists Receive Medical Care
Following the clashes, Adhikari visited SSKM Hospital in Kolkata to meet journalists who were injured during the incident. In a message shared on social media, he strongly condemned the attacks on police personnel and media professionals.
He said he had directed officials to ensure proper medical treatment for all those injured and instructed Kolkata Police to identify every person responsible for the violence. The Chief Minister reiterated that strict legal proceedings would be initiated against those found guilty.
Opposition Demands Swift Action
West Bengal Leader of the Opposition Ritabrata Banerjee also visited the injured journalists at SSKM Hospital. He called for a prompt and impartial investigation into the incident and urged authorities to take firm action against those responsible for the attacks.
The violence during the student protest has since become a major political issue in West Bengal, with leaders from different parties expressing concern over the safety of journalists and law enforcement personnel during public demonstrations. Police investigations into the incident remain underway.