Ethnic Tensions Erupt in Kolkata: Students Branded 'Bangladeshis'

Students from Kolkata University's Carmichael Hostel were allegedly attacked near Sealdah by shopkeepers and miscreants. The incident has sparked a political controversy, with accusations of ethnic profiling against Hindi-speaking shopkeepers. Two arrests have been made, and the event has reignited discussion on the harassment of Bengalis outside West Bengal.

A violent altercation broke out near Sealdah as students from Kolkata University's Carmichael Hostel were reportedly attacked and labeled 'Bangladeshis' by local shopkeepers and miscreants. The incident has triggered a wave of political backlash.

The clash began over a dispute regarding mobile accessory prices, escalating when more hostel boarders got involved. The attacking group, allegedly Hindi-speaking, reportedly abused the students for speaking Bengali, using hockey sticks, knives, and cricket gear.

The local police have arrested two individuals, Dipak Kr Shaw and Imtiaz Ali, in connection with the attack, while efforts continue to apprehend others involved. Political leaders, including the TMC's Krishanu Mitra, have condemned the attack, denouncing it as ethnic profiling.

(With inputs from agencies.)