Heightened Security in Kolkata Amid BJP's 'Bengal Bandh' Protest

Authorities have ramped up security in Kolkata due to the BJP's 12-hour 'Bengal Bandh' protest against an alleged police crackdown during the 'Nabanna Abhijan' rally. The protests follow the rape and murder of a female trainee doctor, sparking national outrage and multiple rallies across states.

Authorities have intensified security measures in Kolkata following the BJP's call for a 12-hour 'Bengal Bandh' in protest against what they claim was a police crackdown during the 'Nabanna Abhijan' rally. The unrest comes in the backdrop of a national outcry over the rape and murder of a female trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9.

Dendup Sherpa, Additional Superintendent of Police (SP) of Uttar Dinajpur district, told ANI that police personnel are extensively deployed across the state to maintain law and order. Precautionary measures include instructing government bus drivers and conductors in Kolkata to wear helmets, anticipating potential violence.

At North Bengal State Transport Corporation (NBSTC), drivers were seen wearing helmets in Cooch Behar. A bus driver stated, "We are wearing helmets due to today's bandh... The department has provided us with them." Another driver expressed concerns, saying, "I am a bit scared. It is for safety. It is a government order. The helmet is somewhat problematic for driving."

On August 27, chaos erupted in Kolkata. Security forces used tear gas, water cannons, and lathicharge to disperse protesters on the Howrah Bridge, who were marching towards the West Bengal State Secretariat Nabanna. Protesters clashed with police, broke barriers, and dragged them away.

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) blamed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for orchestrating the chaos. The TMC's official X handle posted, "BJP's idea of a 'peaceful protest': Pelt stones, push barricades, severely injure police, orchestrate extreme chaos, and disrupt the state's law and order. The 'Nabanna Abhiyan' conspired by the BJP is nothing short of a fatal attack on Bengal."

These protests follow the rape and murder of a postgraduate trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College on August 9, which has led to numerous rallies and widespread indignation across the nation.

(With inputs from agencies.)