Tensions flared at Jadavpur University on Saturday afternoon as a fierce brawl broke out during the annual discussion meeting of the professors' association having allegiance to the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC).
Education Minister Bratya Basu received a minor injury when his car was vandalised amidst heated protests by student organizations demanding prompt elections of the students’ union.
“The unrest was triggered when members of the Left-wing student organisation SFI, the ultra-left factions, and various other student bodies at Jadavpur University rallied against the education minister's presence. They accused the administration of stalling election processes and voiced their demands through slogans, banners, and satirical posters,” said an officer of Jadavpur police station.
Anticipating disruptions, the minister took a detour to enter the university premises. “The tension escalated as soon as he began addressing the audience at the annual meeting. Protesters intensified their demonstrations, holding placards mocking the minister and the administration's policies,” said the officer.
Despite the chaos, Basu attempted to pacify the students, urging them to "keep your heads cool and leave after finishing the meeting." His appeal, however, fell on deaf ears as the situation rapidly spiraled out of control.
As the meeting drew to a close, protesting students surrounded the minister's convoy, blocking his car and that of his pilot vehicle. “The scene quickly descended into violence, with students climbing onto the minister's car and throwing shoes at it. Amidst the chaos, the minister's watch was torn off and he sustained injuries,” the officer added.
“I wanted to hold dialogues with the protesting students but they preferred anarchy,” said Basu.
Interim Vice-Chancellor Bhaskar Gupta arrived at the scene, attempting to mediate and restore order. However, his presence only seemed to agitate the crowd further, leading to renewed protests.
The situation reached a boiling point when the minister's car, attempting to leave the premises, accelerated through the protesting crowd. A few students were reportedly injured after being dashed by the minister’s car. Sources confirmed that the injured students were promptly taken to a nearby private Hospital for treatment.
University authorities are yet to issue an official statement regarding the injuries sustained by both students and the minister. Security has been heightened at Jadavpur University as investigations continue into the cause of the unrest.
Follow us
