Lens on ‘student rally’ after video, audio clips go viral
Times of India | 22 August 2024
Kolkata: A Nabanna Abhijan call by ‘Chhatra Samaj’ on Aug 27 is turning out to be a headache for Kolkata Police after intelligence inputs warned of “possible vandalism and arson” and a gathering of “no less than 30,000 protesters”.
Cops said several videos and audios being shared widely suggest there’s a plan to try and “sabotage” the protest that has already been endorsed by several politicians — from extreme left to right.
“The vandalism at RG Kar is still fresh in our minds. Hence, we are not ready to take chances. While the planning at this stage is mostly peaceful, a section of the planners are talking of a Bangladesh model and of even “bringing the CM out of Nabanna with a mob so big that even cops cannot stop them. We have been tracking the conversations and are keeping an eye on them,” said an officer.
Intelligence agencies claimed that the involvement of some urban chapters of Maoist organizations also cannot be ruled out. “We are coordinating closely with central agencies. Our cyber cell, STF and Special Branch are keeping a close watch on the internet. With audio clippings being used to garner support, we have engaged experts to track them down,” he said.
Opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari stated that he would be present at this march next Tuesday. Adhikari’s nephew, Debdeep Adhikari, also shared a post on Facebook about the Nabanna march. Interestingly, similar messages got shared by several Left leaders and students. The photographs being circulated on social media suggested that a rainbow coalition of parties is likely to join the march.
The security ring around Nabanna has already been increased as there are inputs that the agitators might try to reach Nabanna. The policemen are strictly screening cars that are heading to Nabanna. The screening at the toll tax had also been increased since last week.
The force deployment at Mandirtala end had also been increased and plans are on to put drop gates as well so that movement can be restricted. Eastern Frontier Rifles personnel have been kept stationed near the secretariat.