Protests continue in Kolkata over the rape and murder of a trainee doctor. After doctors protested, student organizations have now called for a march. The West Bengal government has increased security in response. The students, angry with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, are marching to the state secretariat, known as Nabanna, where the West Bengal government operates.
Security Measures in Place
In Hastings, behind Fort William, volunteers are working to prevent protesters from climbing barricades. Mamata Banerjee’s convoy was heading to Nabanna, and security was tightened similarly to the way containers were used to block roads during the farmer protests in Delhi.
Police Actions
The police have sealed the Howrah Bridge with barricades to stop the protesters. They are monitoring the protests with drones and have set up multiple layers of security outside Nabanna.
Claims of a Larger Conspiracy
The police claim there is evidence of a conspiracy to create chaos by misusing the anger of good citizens. They allege that one of the organizers of the “Nabanna Abhijan” met with a political leader at a five-star hotel. The police believe there is intelligence about plans to incite violence and disrupt order.
Political Reactions
The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has criticized the BJP regarding the protest, while the BJP claims that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is using the police to protect herself. The police have also made arrangements to ensure that students taking the UGC NET exam are not disrupted by the protests.
Ongoing Protests
Protests have not stopped since the incident on August 9, when a trainee doctor was raped and murdered in Kolkata. Thousands of doctors have been on strike, refusing to return to work despite appeals from the Supreme Court and the state government.
