West Bengal Chief Minister Condemns Attack on Police and Journalists During NEET Protest
Dubela: West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has strongly condemned the alleged assault on police personnel and journalists during a protest over the NEET examination controversy in Kolkata. Calling the incident a “brutal attack”, the Chief Minister said those responsible would face strict legal action. The violence erupted during a protest march in central Kolkata, where demonstrators demanding accountability over the alleged NEET paper leak clashed with police. As the situation escalated, several police personnel and journalists covering the protest reportedly sustained injuries. The clashes also caused traffic disruption in the Esplanade area for several hours.
Expressing concern over the incident, the Chief Minister said attacks on law enforcement officials and members of the media were unacceptable in a democratic society. In a statement shared on social media, he condemned the violence and extended his support to those injured during the protest. Following the incident, the Chief Minister visited SSKM Hospital, where the injured journalists were undergoing treatment. He enquired about their health and instructed hospital authorities to ensure that they received the best possible medical care. He also wished the injured police personnel a speedy recovery.
The Chief Minister directed the Kolkata Police Commissioner to identify those involved in the violence and take stringent legal action against them. He emphasised that the state government would maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards attacks on police officers, journalists and other public servants performing their duties. The protest was organised by student groups and political activists demanding greater transparency and accountability in the conduct of the NEET examination following allegations of irregularities. While the demonstration began peacefully, tensions escalated after confrontations between protesters and security personnel, leading to clashes and injuries.
The incident has triggered widespread reactions from political leaders, journalists’ associations and civil society groups, many of whom have called for the protection of media professionals while reporting from conflict situations. They have also appealed for peaceful demonstrations and restraint from all sides to prevent further violence. Police have launched an investigation into the incident and are examining video footage and eyewitness accounts to identify those responsible. Security has also been tightened in sensitive areas of Kolkata to prevent any recurrence of violence.
As investigations continue, the incident has once again highlighted the need to balance the democratic right to protest with the safety of police personnel, journalists and the general public.
