Protests have intensified in Kolkata following the brutal rape and murder of a trainee doctor. On Tuesday (August 27), students and state employees marched towards Nabanna, the state secretariat, led by the West Bengal Student Association and Sangrami Joutha Manch.
At Santaragachi, protesters broke through police barricades, prompting the police to resort to a lathi-charge in an attempt to control the situation. The police also used water cannons and tear gas to disperse the protesters, resulting in several injuries.
To secure Nabanna, where the Chief Minister and other high-ranking officials are stationed, 6,000 police personnel have been deployed. Barricades have been set up at 19 locations, and Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) have been stationed at 21 points. Additionally, Howrah Bridge has been closed, and drones are being used for surveillance.
In light of the violence, the police declared the rally illegal. Section 144, which prohibits gatherings of more than five people, has been imposed near Nabanna. Heavy containers have also been placed on the roads to prevent further advancement by the protesters.
The rape and murder of the trainee doctor occurred on the night of August 8 at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, sparking nationwide outrage. Following the incident, doctors across the country began protesting. Although several hospitals called off their strikes after a Supreme Court appeal, protests continue in the state. Meanwhile, the BJP has announced a 12-hour Bengal Bandh on Wednesday.