The ‘Nabanna Abhijan’ march was organized to protest the alleged rape and murder of a 31-year-old doctor in Kolkata. The protesters, including members of the BJP and various student bodies, demanded justice and the resignation of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The march aimed to reach the state secretariat, Nabanna, but was met with heavy police resistance.
On August 27, 2024, the Kolkata Police used tear gas, water cannons, and batons to disperse the protesters who had gathered at Santragachi in Howrah. The situation escalated when some protesters threw bricks at the police, injuring several officers. The police responded with force, leading to chaotic scenes and multiple injuries among the protesters.
In reaction to the police crackdown, the BJP called for a statewide bandh, condemning the use of force against what they termed a peaceful protest. BJP leader Agnimitra Paul criticized the state government, accusing it of being “spineless” and using excessive force to suppress dissent. She also claimed that the police had violated Supreme Court orders by using water cannons mixed with chemicals.
The bandh has significantly affected daily life in West Bengal. Public transport services have been disrupted, with government bus drivers and conductors instructed to wear helmets for their safety. Many shops and businesses remain closed, and there have been reports of sporadic violence and clashes between bandh supporters and the police.
The Trinamool Congress (TMC), led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has defended the police action, stating that the protesters were not peaceful and had engaged in stone-pelting and other violent activities. The TMC accused the BJP of orchestrating chaos and disrupting law and order in the state.
The public reaction to the bandh has been mixed. While some support the BJP’s call for justice and accountability, others criticize the disruption caused by the bandh and the violence associated with the protests. Social media is abuzz with debates on the legitimacy of the bandh and the actions of both the protesters and the police.
The Bengal Bandh today highlights the ongoing political and social tensions in West Bengal. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the state government and the BJP will navigate this crisis. The demand for justice for the victim and the call for accountability from the authorities continue to be at the forefront of this unfolding story.
The current status of the victim’s case, involving the alleged rape and murder of a 31-year-old doctor in Kolkata, is as follows:
Investigation: The case has been handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) by the Calcutta High Court1. The CBI is consulting experts from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on DNA and forensic evidence to build a strong case.
Suspect: Sanjay Roy, the arrested accused, is currently under investigation. The CBI is working to determine whether he acted alone or if others were involved in the crime.
Public and Professional Outcry: The incident has sparked nationwide outrage, with junior doctors refusing to see non-emergency patients in many parts of the country. They are demanding justice for the victim and greater safety for women in hospitals.
Government Response: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has demanded that the CBI solve the case by August 18 and deliver justice1. The state government has faced criticism for its handling of the situation, leading to the current bandh and protests.
The case remains under active investigation, and the public is closely watching for further developments.
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