'Nabanna' rally turns violent as protesters clash with police in WB

Kolkata, NT Bureau: Clashes broke out between police and protesters at different parts of Kolkata and its neighbouring Howrah on Tuesday, as the agitators tried to make their way through barricades to march towards the West Bengal secretariat Nabanna.

The protesters were attempting to reach Nabanna to demand the resignation of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over the alleged rape-murder of a doctor at state-run RG Kar Medical College and Hospital here earlier this month.

Protesting “brutal” police action against “peaceful” protestors, the BJP called for a general strike on Wednesday. The ruling TMC denounced the decision claiming it was aimed at creating chaos.

Over 200 people were arrested in connection with the rally. Clashes were reported at MG Road, Hastings Road and areas near the Princep Ghat alongside Santragachi and Howrah Maidan in which some protesters as well as 29 police personnel were injured.

“Today we handled the situation well as we are well prepared. Intelligence inputs helped us, otherwise the situation could have been worse. In the state police area, we have arrested 94 people. We arrested 25 others yesterday,” ADG (Law and Order) told reporters in Nabanna.

According to Kolkata Police sources, 126 members and supporters of Paschim Banga Chhatra Samaj, one of the organizers of the rally, were arrested. Out of them, 33 were women.

Police used batons, water cannons and tear gas to disperse protesters who threw stones at the security forces, and attempted to breach barricades blocking their way to the state secretariat.

"Why were we beaten by police? We did not break any law. We are holding a peaceful rally to demand justice for the deceased doctor. The chief minister should take responsibility and resign," said a woman protester.

Police said they had to take action after the agitators breached barricades at some locations. Fifteen personnel of the Kolkata Police and 14 from the state police force were injured.