Kolkata, Feb 2 (PTI) – West Bengal Education Minister Bratya Basu encountered protests from students at a Kolkata law college on Sunday after allegations surfaced that a Trinamool Congress Chhatra Parishad (TMCP) leader and his associates threatened students for organizing Saraswati Puja on campus.
The controversy erupted at Jogeshchandra Law College following a dispute between two student groups over hosting the religious festival. The situation escalated when several students, predominantly women, accused TMCP members, led by former student Sabir Ali, of preventing them from holding the puja. Some students even claimed they faced rape threats from the opposing faction.
In response to a petition filed by one of the affected students, the Calcutta High Court intervened on Friday, instructing Kolkata Police to ensure that the puja could proceed with adequate security. The court directed a senior police officer to oversee security arrangements and deploy personnel at the college gates.
"I am here to listen. No one will coerce or threaten you. Strong action will be taken against anyone found guilty," Basu assured the students. Several female students reportedly broke down while narrating their experiences, claiming they were intimidated by outsiders while entering the college.
Following his discussions, Basu confirmed that he had visited the puja site and promised an inquiry into the allegations. He scheduled a follow-up meeting with students and college authorities on February 5-6 to address the matter further.
MP Mala Roy dismissed the protests, asserting that Saraswati Puja is not a platform for political sloganeering. She and the minister visited both puja sites, ensuring compliance with the Calcutta High Court’s directive and police supervision.
Senior Trinamool Congress leader Firhad Hakim weighed in, stating that Saraswati Puja and Durga Puja in Bengal are inclusive celebrations where people from different backgrounds participate. He accused “certain forces” of attempting to disrupt communal harmony using minor disputes.
The controversy erupted at Jogeshchandra Law College following a dispute between two student groups over hosting the religious festival. The situation escalated when several students, predominantly women, accused TMCP members, led by former student Sabir Ali, of preventing them from holding the puja. Some students even claimed they faced rape threats from the opposing faction.
In response to a petition filed by one of the affected students, the Calcutta High Court intervened on Friday, instructing Kolkata Police to ensure that the puja could proceed with adequate security. The court directed a senior police officer to oversee security arrangements and deploy personnel at the college gates.
Minister Bratya Basu Assures Action Amid Emotional Student Outcry
On Sunday, Minister Bratya Basu, accompanied by local Trinamool Congress MP Mala Roy, visited the college to address student grievances. As he stepped onto the campus, he was met with “We Want Justice” slogans from female students, many of whom were visibly distressed."I am here to listen. No one will coerce or threaten you. Strong action will be taken against anyone found guilty," Basu assured the students. Several female students reportedly broke down while narrating their experiences, claiming they were intimidated by outsiders while entering the college.
Following his discussions, Basu confirmed that he had visited the puja site and promised an inquiry into the allegations. He scheduled a follow-up meeting with students and college authorities on February 5-6 to address the matter further.
Denials, Counterclaims, and Political Tensions
Denying the allegations, Sabir Ali defended himself, stating, "We are organizing the Saraswati Puja of the day section in an adjacent lane. No threats were made, and no evidence exists to support these claims." He argued that, as an alumnus of the college, he had every right to participate in the festivities.MP Mala Roy dismissed the protests, asserting that Saraswati Puja is not a platform for political sloganeering. She and the minister visited both puja sites, ensuring compliance with the Calcutta High Court’s directive and police supervision.
Senior Trinamool Congress leader Firhad Hakim weighed in, stating that Saraswati Puja and Durga Puja in Bengal are inclusive celebrations where people from different backgrounds participate. He accused “certain forces” of attempting to disrupt communal harmony using minor disputes.
BJP Slams TMC, Alleges Religious Suppression
The incident also triggered a strong response from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari accused the Trinamool Congress of fostering an anti-Hindu environment, stating, "West Bengal is turning into Bangladesh, where Saraswati Puja is now being held under police protection." He urged Hindus to unite against what he called a “radical Islamist agenda” supported by the ruling party.Conclusion
The controversy at Jogeshchandra Law College underscores growing political and religious tensions in West Bengal. While the Calcutta High Court's intervention ensured the puja was held, the accusations of intimidation and political interference continue to spark debates across the state. With an inquiry now promised by the Education Minister, all eyes will be on the upcoming February 5-6 meeting for further developments.
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