Protests Erupt Near Bangladesh Mission in Kolkata as Suvendu Adhikari Threatens Disruption

Hundreds protested near the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission in Kolkata against violence towards minorities. Suvendu Adhikari threatened to disrupt operations if denied a meeting with the envoy. Police intervened, resulting in clashes and injuries.

In Kolkata, a large group attempted to march towards the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission on Tuesday. They were protesting against attacks on minorities in Bangladesh. However, police intervened midway, resulting in a clash that injured several individuals. The protest, known as the Hindu Hunkar Padayatra, was organised by Bongiyo Hindu Jagaran Mancha. Participants wore saffron clothes and chanted slogans condemning violence against minorities.

The rally began at Sealdah and aimed to reach the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission's office in Park Circus. However, police halted the procession at Beckbagan. When protesters tried to break through the barricades, police resorted to baton charges. An official reported that at least 12 people were arrested, and both demonstrators and police personnel sustained injuries during the confrontation.

Protest Against Attacks on Minorities

Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari criticised the state government for the police's actions. Adhikari expressed his discontent with the situation, stating, "What happened in Kolkata today shows there is no difference between Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Muhammad Yunus of Bangladesh." He claimed that unarmed protesters, including seers, were targeted by police.

Adhikari voiced his concern over attacks on minorities in Bangladesh and requested a meeting with the country's deputy high commissioner in Kolkata. He stated his intention to attend the meeting alone but warned of larger mobilisations from December 26 if denied an appointment. "We will not let the deputy high commission function smoothly on Indian soil," he asserted.

Security Measures and Political Reactions

A significant police presence has been stationed near the deputy high commission to safeguard diplomatic staff and prevent further attempts to besiege the premises. The protesters demanded accountability for those responsible for Dipu Chandra Das's death and sought security for Hindus in Bangladesh. Das, a 25-year-old garment factory worker, was lynched by a mob on December 18 in Baluka, Mymensingh over alleged blasphemy.

On Monday, Adhikari led a demonstration near the deputy high commission with party leaders and supporters. Approximately 2,000 people participated in this rally, blocking roads after being stopped by police from advancing further. The state Congress also held a similar protest on Monday.

The protesters' demands included action against those involved in Das's death and enhanced security measures for Hindus residing in Bangladesh. The situation remains tense as political leaders continue to express their dissatisfaction with how events unfolded during the protests.

With inputs from PTI