Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Saturday strongly condemned the attacks on journalists during yesterday’s protest at Dharmatala, asserting in the Assembly that those responsible would face the strictest legal action, including provisions under the Anti-Goonda Act.
Referring to the violence that broke out during the NEET-UG protest rally, Adhikari said journalists were targeted while performing their professional duties, with bottles and shoes allegedly hurled at them.
He praised the restraint shown by the Kolkata Police, noting that the force refrained from using aggressive measures despite provocation. He also informed the House that six cases have been registered, incorporating provisions of the Anti-Goonda Act.
The chief minister, addressing the Assembly, said he had personally visited injured journalists at SSKM Hospital. He reiterated that while democratic protests are a right, violence would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Adhikari alleged that certain groups had mobilised individuals from areas such as Khidirpur, Rajabazar, Belgachia, Akra, and Rajarhat to instigate violence at Dorina Crossing. He claimed that journalists were deliberately targeted but credited the police for not escalating the situation.
He further stated that Left and ultra-Left student organisations, including Students' Federation of India (SFI) and All India Students' Association (AISA), had called the rally under the ‘Cockroach’ banner. According to police estimates, the gathering drew around 9,000 participants.
Adhikari confirmed that legal proceedings have begun in connection with the assault. “Six journalist colleagues are undergoing treatment at government hospitals. I have received written complaints, and six cases have been registered invoking the anti-goonda law,” he said.
Police investigations have reportedly identified around 70 individuals who were not part of the student community or the NEET protest movement. Naming alleged perpetrators such as Afroz, Nahid, Tanvir, Rahul, and Jamal, the Chief Minister warned of stringent action.
“I will not spare these individuals… such action will be taken that generations will remember,” he stated.
The incident has also triggered political reactions. BJP MLAs, led by Chief Whip Amlan Bhaduri, announced a protest beneath the Ambedkar statue, wearing black badges in response to the attacks on journalists.
The Press Club, Kolkata condemned the Dharmatala violence, stating that journalists have faced targeted attacks not only in Kolkata but also in Delhi during related protests. The Club has called for a protest on July 25 at 3 PM outside its premises, urging journalists and photojournalists to participate.
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