JP Nadda Criticizes Police Action On Nabanna Protesters; Bengal BJP Announces 12-Hour Strike

BJP President JP Nadda condemned the police action against protesters in the ‘Nabanna Abhijan’ rally. The rally was organized to denounce the rape and murder of a junior doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.

Nadda expressed his disapproval in a social media post on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “The images of police highhandedness from Kolkata have angered every person who values democratic principles. In Didi’s West Bengal, helping rapists and criminals is valued, but it’s a crime to speak for women’s safety.”

Bengal BJP Calls for Statewide Strike

West Bengal BJP chief and Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar criticized the police action at a press conference. He announced a 12-hour statewide strike, urging public support in solidarity with protesting students. Acknowledging the inconvenience caused by strikes, he appealed for participation, stating that legal and medical aid will be provided to protesters facing police action. A helpline will also be established.

Clashes Erupt Between Police and Protesters

In Kolkata, fresh clashes occurred at Hastings, where police resorted to lathicharge and teargas to control the crowd. In Howrah, a group of protesters reached Nabanna, the state secretariat, but were dispersed by police. Earlier, riot police used teargas and water cannons in parts of Howrah, including Howrah Bridge, where protesters carried the Tricolour while shouting slogans.

A police circle inspector was seriously injured after being hit by stones allegedly thrown by protesters. Many women leading the march near the Police Training School close to Vidyasagar Setu were also injured in police action. Tensions escalated at Mahatma Gandhi Road in central Kolkata, where clashes led to lathicharge and more teargas firing.

Also Read: Water Cannons And Tear Gas Deployed In Howrah As ‘Nabanna Abhijan’ Protest Escalates