In Kolkata, West Bengal, a protest took place at RG Kar Hospital, demanding justice for the victim of a rape-murder case. Hundreds of students marched to the state secretariat, Nabanna, but police used tear gas, batons, and water cannons to block their way. During the protest, an elderly man in saffron clothes holding an Indian flag was seen making a significant gesture toward the police.
Elderly Man’s Gesture:
As the elderly man was pushed back by the water cannons, he made a gesture toward the police, signaling them to continue with the water. His gestures suggested his discontent with the police’s actions, which might have embarrassed the Mamata Banerjee government.
Protest and Police Action:
On Tuesday, hundreds of protesters started their march from two locations in the city as part of the ‘Nabanna Campaign.’ The police responded with baton charges and tear gas. The protesters, mainly young people, were demanding the resignation of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the arrest of those responsible for the rape and murder of a doctor at RG Kar Medical College Hospital. Nabanna is the state secretariat of West Bengal.
March from Howrah’s Santragachi:
The march began from Howrah’s Santragachi and College Square in North Kolkata. Protesters blamed Chief Minister Banerjee for failing to ensure women’s safety, which they believe led to the incident at RG Kar Hospital. A participant said, “No matter what happens, we will reach Nabanna. We want the chief minister’s resignation and action against those responsible for this crime.”
‘Apolitical’ Rally:
Police had set up barricades and imposed restrictions to prevent the protesters from reaching Nabanna. They used batons and tear gas to disperse the crowd. Spokesperson Sayan Lahiri from the student organization ‘Chhatra Samaj’ stated that the rally was apolitical. He emphasized that despite provocations, they aimed to keep the protest peaceful and democratic, demanding justice for the victim and her family. He urged the Mamata Banerjee government to listen to the demands for justice from the people of Bengal and the nation.