Kolkata is bracing for heightened tension as the city prepares for the ‘Nabanna Abhijan’ rally today, August 27. This protest, organized by the student group Paschimbanga Chhatro Samaj and the Sangrami Joutha Mancha, aims to demand the resignation of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over the alleged rape and murder of a 31-year-old woman trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.
Key Updates:
- Police Preparations: Around 4,500 police personnel are deployed at seven locations in Kolkata and Howrah to block protesters from reaching the state secretariat, Nabanna. Authorities have set up barricades, water cannons, tear gas, and riot-control vehicles to manage the situation.
- Rally Legality: The Kolkata Police have declared the rally as “illegal” and “unauthorized,” citing potential law and order issues. Prohibitory orders have been imposed near Nabanna to prevent large gatherings.
- Student Group’s Stance: Despite the ban, Paschimbanga Chhatro Samaj claims the march will be peaceful, focusing on justice for the victim and the resignation of Mamata Banerjee.
- Security Concerns: Additional Commissioner of Police Supratim Sarkar mentioned intelligence reports indicating potential attempts by miscreants to incite violence among protesters.
- Political Reactions: The Trinamool Congress has accused the BJP of attempting to incite violence through the protest, releasing videos of BJP leaders allegedly planning disruptions. The Bengal BJP has distanced itself from the rally but supports the demand for justice.
- Governor’s Appeal: Governor CV Ananda Bose has urged the state government to allow the students to organize the rally without excessive force.
- Examinations Unaffected: Chatra Samaj spokesperson Sayan Lahiri assured that the protest would not interfere with the UGC-NET exams scheduled in two shifts today.
The brutal incident has sparked widespread outrage, leading to numerous protests across the country demanding justice for the victim.
