Tensions erupted in Kolkata on Saturday during a protest led by the parents of the RG Kar Medical College doctor who was raped and murdered in August 2024. The rally, joined by several BJP leaders including Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, turned chaotic when demonstrators tried to breach police barricades en route to the West Bengal secretariat, Nabanna. Police resorted to a lathicharge and deployed water cannons, with BJP leaders claiming over 100 protesters were injured.

The victim’s mother alleged that “Mamata Banerjee’s police” assaulted her, breaking her bangles, and accused authorities of blocking peaceful demands for justice. The unrest began after the rally moved from the designated protest site towards Park Street, where police, citing Calcutta High Court orders, blocked further movement. Some protesters climbed and dismantled barricades, while others attempted to force passage in Santragachi, Howrah.

The case, now with the CBI, has stirred public outrage since the January conviction of civic volunteer Sanjay Roy for the crime. Heavy security, multi-layered barricades, and traffic restrictions were imposed across Kolkata and Howrah to prevent escalation, with prohibitory orders under Section 163 of BNSS in place. BJP leaders vowed to continue protests, demanding Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s resignation and justice for the victim.