BJP claims Ram Navami rally attacked in Kolkata’s Park Circus, Police deny permission was sought
Kolkata: BJP MP and Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar on Sunday alleged that a Ram Navami rally was attacked in the Park Circus Seven Point area of Kolkata. In a post on social media platform X, Majumdar claimed that vehicles carrying saffron flags were pelted with stones, resulting in shattered windshields and damage, while accusing the police of inaction during the incident.
The Balurghat MP, who also serves as the BJP's West Bengal unit president, posted videos showing damaged vehicles and alleged that the violence was targeted. He criticised the police force, stating it remained silent during the episode and accused the state government of pursuing "appeasement politics."
In his post, Majumdar claimed that the alleged attack was a response to the growing show of unity among Bengali Hindus and promised a larger procession next year. He stated that the same police who "stood mute" this year would "shower flowers" on the rally in future.
Kolkata Police responded to the allegations on X, stating that no permission had been granted for any procession in the Park Circus area on the occasion of Ram Navami. The police clarified that no official rally had taken place in that location, and they intervened upon receiving reports of a damaged vehicle. A case has been registered and an investigation is underway, the police added, while advising the public not to pay attention to unverified claims or rumours.
BJP leader Tarunjyoti Tewari questioned the police's stance on permissions, referring to a recent gathering by members of the minority community in the same area. The protest was held against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which was passed in Parliament last week.
Ram Navami celebrations saw over 2,000 rallies held across West Bengal, with participation from both BJP and Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders. The occasion, however, also became a flashpoint in the ongoing political rivalry ahead of next year’s Assembly elections.
Approximately 6,000 police personnel were deployed across the state, along with drone surveillance, CCTV monitoring, and quick response teams to maintain law and order.
As the Ram Navami procession returned, Hindu devotees were savagely attacked in Kolkata’s Park Circus Seven Point area. Stones rained down on vehicles just for carrying saffron flags. Windshields shattered. Chaos unleashed. This wasn’t random—it was targeted violence. And where… pic.twitter.com/Ed74Xbi2K6
— Dr. Sukanta Majumdar (@DrSukantaBJP) April 6, 2025
Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.
CEC orders immediate arrest of those involved in post-poll violence in Bengal: Official
Kolkata (PTI): Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar directed the authorities concerned to immediately arrest those involved in post-poll violence and vandalism in West Bengal, an official said on Wednesday.
The Election Commission's directive came after two persons were killed in alleged incidents of post-poll violence in the state on Tuesday, besides scores of party offices being ransacked.
The CEC issued instructions to the West Bengal chief secretary, director general of police, Kolkata police commissioner and directors general of central armed police forces, along with all district magistrates, superintendents of police and other officials, to maintain continuous patrolling in sensitive areas, he said.
"Those responsible for inciting violence and carrying out acts of vandalism must be arrested immediately," the official said, quoting the CEC's instruction.
The chief election commissioner also stressed the need for swift and firm enforcement of the law, he added.
This directive came amid concerns over law and order in parts of the state, with the Election Commission closely monitoring the situation, he added.
"We have been asked to remain on high alert and ensure that any attempt to disturb peace is dealt with firmly," a senior police officer said.
The state authorities have intensified vigil across districts, with coordinated efforts between the police and central forces to prevent any untoward incident, he added.
The assembly elections were held in West Bengal in two phases - April 23 and 29. The counting of votes took place on May 4.
The BJP sealed a landslide victory with 207 seats in the 294-member assembly, ending the TMC's uninterrupted 15-year rule in the state.
