Kolkata: The Nabanna Abhijan planned by Paschimbanga Chhatra Samaj and Sangrami Joutha Mancha on Tuesday has left UGC-NET aspirants worried, particularly those set to appear for the exams in the second shift starting 3 pm. Students will appear for philosophy and language papers, in two shifts — from 9 am to 12 pm and from 3 pm to 6 pm. There are 18 centres across Bengal.
With indications of confrontation between cops and the protesters in different parts of the city as the former raised concerns that miscreants might try to violate prohibitory law, first-shift candidates also anticipate trouble while returning home.
UGC-NET aspirant in philosophy Shyani Saha said, “My exam is scheduled in the first half at TCS Gitobitan. Usually, I go alone but anticipating widespread disruptions, I will meet up with some of my friends and go together. We have also decided to start at 5.30 am so that we can reach the exam centre before time.”
According to Akash Gupta, who has an exam in the second shift, it will be a hassle to reach the exam centre at TCS Gitobitan on time. “An unwanted and tense situation will be created and thousands of students will have to suffer due to a planned disruption. We all want justice but this protest does not look like a call for justice; there is a political agenda behind it and there are indications it will not be peaceful,” Gupta said, adding he plans to leave home at 11 am and travel to the centre with friends.
Imtiaz Ali, who will also appear for the philosophy paper in the first half at TCS Gitobitan, said, “The way provocative speeches are going viral on social media on Nabanna Abhijan, there are ample reasons to feel unsafe. I am extremely worried about reaching Sector V and returning home. This rally seems to be a show of power rather than for demanding justice.”
Another candidate, Ayesha Khatun, said, “I am anxious after hearing about the huge gathering that will march to Nabanna. The only relief is that my exam will be held in the first half. But I can face trouble while returning home.”
ADG (law and order) Manoj Kumar Verma said they are making arrangements for the exam, including special buses and other public transport vehicles in case candidates get stuck. Several alternate routes to TCS Gitobitan have also been identified from Howrah and the city centre for the students.
Kolkata Police, too, said all help will be provided to examinees if they get stuck on the road. “They can approach our men on the road or they can call our control rooms,” said joint CP (headquarters) Meeraj Khalid.
Bengal BJP president Sukanta Majumdar from the Shyambazar Dharna Mancha said there will be a helpline for NET candidates that will be handled by Juva-Morcha. “If any candidate faces trouble, they will help them reach the exam centres,” he said.