In a significant move, students in Kolkata have announced the 'Nabanna Campaign' protest demanding the resignation of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. It's important to note that Nabanna Bhavan, located in Howrah, serves as the state secretariat. To manage this demonstration, a substantial police force has been deployed throughout Kolkata. Vigilance is at its peak with every nook and cranny being monitored. The Howrah Bridge has been sealed off completely. An iron wall has been erected and slicked with oil to make it unclimbable.
Reflecting Delhi Tactics
To control the protesters, Kolkata Police has adopted the 'Delhi Formula'. Much like during the farmer protests in Delhi where iron walls were used, similar measures have been implemented here in Kolkata.
Massive Police Deployment
It is reported that the protest was called by the organization named 'Paschim Banga Vidyarthi Samaj'. The BJP has also extended its support to this demonstration, while TMC has dismissed it as a BJP conspiracy. Kolkata streets are now filled with heavy police presence. Drones are employed for surveillance, and authorities have been instructed to stay alert. Despite sporadic rains, the police force remains vigilant. CCTV cameras are actively monitoring the scene, and barricades are set up at multiple points.
Howrah Bridge Sealed
In light of the protest, Howrah Bridge in Kolkata has been sealed, and no vehicles are allowed to pass. A large number of police officers are on duty. In addition to dealing with inclement weather, Kolkata’s Police Commissioner is also assessing the situation. An iron wall has been erected to reinforce the sealing of the bridge.
Students Behind the Protest
This protest is organized by Prabir Das from Rabindra Bharati University, Shubhankar Haldar from Kalyani University, and Sayan Lahiri. These students claim they have no political affiliations but demand the resignation of Mamata Banerjee as Chief Minister.
Source: aajtak
The Students' Three Demands
Sayan Lahiri stated that the protest began from a Facebook post and highlighted their three demands: justice for Abhaya, capital punishment for the criminal, and the resignation of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
Source: aajtak
Three-Layered Security at Nabanna Bhavan
Kolkata Police announced that more than 6,000 police officers will be deployed for the 'Nabanna Campaign'. Barricades will be set up at 19 strategic points, including five key aluminium barricades at various locations. Three-layered security will be in place around Nabanna Bhavan, guarded by Kolkata Police and Howrah City Police. Officials are advised to stay alert and continuously monitor CCTV footage. Additionally, water cannons and Vajra vehicles are on standby.
Source: aajtak
Details of the Protest Sought
Kolkata Police has sent an email to the organizers of the Nabanna Campaign asking for details of the leaders, the number of participants, starting points, and routes of the rallies. So far, there’s been no response from the organizers. Special arrangements have been made at College Square where a large gathering is expected. Intelligence reports suggest that the two major rallies will begin at College Square and Santragachi in Kolkata.
Source: aajtak
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Additionally, the UGC NET exam is scheduled for August 27th, with sessions from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM and from 3 PM to 6 PM. Kolkata Police has ensured that there will be no hindrance for UGC NET candidates reaching their exam centers.
TMC Blames Opposition
The ruling TMC has accused the opposition of instigating the protest. According to TMC, the opposition aims to disrupt peace in the state and has fueled this demonstration to create unrest.
