Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has issued a stern warning after violence broke out in Kolkata’s Park Circus-Tiljala area during protests against an anti-encroachment bulldozer drive.
Adhikari said stone-pelting, attacks on security personnel and damage to public property would not be tolerated under his government. Drawing a comparison with Jammu and Kashmir, he said a “Kashmir-like culture” of stone-pelting would not be allowed in Bengal.
The Chief Minister made the remarks after visiting the Deputy Commissioner of Police’s office and meeting injured personnel. According to the report, six police personnel and two CRPF jawans were injured in the violence. So far, 40 people have been arrested, and the investigation is being carried out under the supervision of the Police Commissioner.
Adhikari praised the police and central forces for showing restraint despite provocation. He said they prevented a bigger tragedy and protected people during the unrest. “I am giving a clear message that there will be zero tolerance towards such unrest, hooliganism and anti-national, anti-social activities,” he said.
Taking a swipe at the previous TMC administration, Adhikari said the days were over when the police minister sat in an air-conditioned room while police personnel were injured on the streets. He told the force to work fearlessly under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, assuring them that both the Chief Minister and Home Minister stood firmly with them.
He added that democratic protests would be allowed, but violence under the cover of religious slogans would face strict action.