Those identified for allegedly fomenting violence during the student march at Esplanade may have been backed by foreign forces, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said on Sunday. He added that investigators were examining the possibility.
Adhikari was speaking to reporters after attending a gathering of BJP leaders and workers at Sonachura in Nandigram, where they listened to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s radio programme, Mann Ki Baat.
Responding to questions from the media, Adhikari said those involved in the violence had no connection with the Kokroach Janata Party (CJP).
“Those who were part of the NEET movement in West Bengal were not involved in this incident—the violence and the assault on journalists. I have examined the matter carefully. They have also posted on social media that the CJP will not accept any responsibility for those involved in this barbaric attack on journalists,” he said.
Adhikari further claimed that the group responsible could have received support from foreign forces.
“This force may be backed by foreign powers. An investigation is under way,” he said.
Referring to the alleged assault on journalists, Adhikari added, “Seven cases have been registered over the manner in which journalists were beaten, injured and allegedly subjected to attempts on their lives. Most of the cases were filed by the journalists themselves, while the police initiated one or two cases on their own. This is the first time journalists have come forward to lodge complaints.”
He further alleged that those involved had no connection with the student movement.
“They are not students. They are Islamic fundamentalists. Investigators are examining which foreign force may be supporting them,” Adhikari said.
In the wake of the Esplanade violence, Adhikari said his government would deal with those responsible through the rule of law. He also offered an explanation for why the group had allegedly tried to create unrest.
“They are resorting to such acts because they are frustrated by the decisions taken by the nationalist government here over the past 10 weeks to enforce the law,” he said.
The CJP’s agitation in Delhi against alleged corruption in education and the reported NEET question paper leak had also prompted protests in Kolkata.
On Friday, a march was organised from Sealdah to Esplanade. A large number of people joined the demonstration following a call by the CJP and Left-affiliated student organisations.
It was alleged that some participants attempted to attack police personnel. Journalists covering the march were also allegedly assaulted.
Adhikari expressed displeasure over the incident in the Assembly on Saturday and condemned the attacks on journalists.
A total of 70 suspects were identified in connection with the Esplanade march, and seven cases were registered. Adhikari said provisions of the anti-goonda law had been invoked against the accused.
Until Saturday, 11 people had been arrested in connection with the unrest. According to information released by Kolkata Police on Sunday morning, three more people were subsequently taken into custody.
Police sources said the suspects were identified after officers examined video footage. Searches were then launched to locate and arrest them.
