Intense Security Measures: Kolkata Police Deploys Water Cannons, Barricades to Fortify Secretariat Ahead of Emotion-Charged Nabanna Abhijan Student Protest
Kolkata on High Alert Ahead of Nabanna Abhijan Rally Protesting Rape-Murder Case
Following the call for the Nabanna Abhijan Rally on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, to protest the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, the West Bengal police have significantly ramped up security around the state secretariat, "Nabanna." Measures include the deployment of vajra vehicles, water cannons, and Riot Control Force, with containers strategically placed to block roads.
On Monday, August 26, the West Bengal Police declared the rally "illegal" and warned it could incite widespread unrest in Kolkata. Organized by the Paschim Banga Chatra Samaj and other groups, the protest aims to demand justice for the recent heinous crime.
In anticipation of the rally, the Kolkata Police have issued a traffic advisory with several diversions affecting major routes connecting the city. Vehicles from Kolaghat and Dankuni intending to use the 2nd Hooghly Bridge are advised to use the Nibedita Setu. The advisory also includes restrictions on vehicular movement on key routes such as Kona Expressway, Andul Road, GT Road, and Foreshore Road.
Additional Commissioner of Police Kolkata, Supratim Sarkar, confirmed the rejection of the Paschimbanga Chhatro Samaj’s application to hold the rally due to insufficient details and lack of formal permission, as per High Court directives. Sarkar emphasized that the group’s failure to seek permission through proper channels necessitated this decision.
The brutal incident on August 9, where the trainee doctor was found dead in the seminar hall of RG Kar Medical College, has sparked national outrage and multiple protests demanding justice. This rally is the latest in a series of demonstrations fueled by the crime, which has deeply shaken the country.
As the city braces for the protest, heightened security and traffic diversions aim to maintain order, but the public sentiment remains one of anger and a strong call for justice.
Original Story https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/water-cannons-barricades-kolkata-police-puts-in-high-security-ring-at-secretariat-ahead-of-nabanna-abhijan-student-protest/article68571461.ece
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