The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has called for a 12-hour Bangla bandh (strike) in West Bengal on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, to protest what they describe as "brutal" police action against "peaceful" protesters during the Nabanna Abhijan. The bandh is scheduled from 6 AM to 6 PM.
The Nabanna Abhijan was a protest march organized by the Paschim Banga Chhatra Samaj (West Bengal Students Community) and the Sangrami Joutha Mancha (Joint Platform of Struggle), with participants demanding the resignation of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The protest was triggered by the alleged rape and murder of a doctor at the state-run RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata on August 9, 2024.
Events Leading to the Bandh: On Tuesday, August 27, clashes erupted between the police and protesters across various parts of Kolkata and neighboring Howrah. The rally, which began at College Square in Kolkata, saw heightened security as protesters attempted to march towards the state secretariat, Nabanna.
The protesters, who included students and state government employees, were met with heavy police resistance. The Kolkata Police resorted to lathi charges, water cannons, and tear gas to disperse the crowds. Over 200 people were arrested, including 126 members and supporters of the Paschim Banga Chhatra Samaj. The police reported injuries to 29 officers during the clashes.
BJP's Response: Following the violence, Union Minister and West Bengal BJP President Sukanta Majumdar called for a 12-hour bandh, condemning the police's handling of the situation. BJP President JP Nadda criticized the West Bengal government, accusing them of protecting criminals while repressing peaceful protesters. He also took a swipe at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, alleging that her administration values helping criminals over ensuring women's safety.
TMC's Reaction: The ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) denounced the BJP's bandh call, accusing the party of attempting to create chaos in the state. Senior TMC leader Kunal Ghosh claimed that the Nabanna Abhijan was backed by the BJP, highlighting the swift call for a bandh as evidence of the party's involvement in the disturbances.
Police and Government's Stand: Senior Bengal Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya praised the police for their efforts to control the situation without yielding to provocations. She defended the police's actions during the Nabanna Abhijan, asserting that they acted commendably in maintaining law and order.
