kolkata

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; Kolkata, July 25: Chief Minister Shuvendu Adhikari on Saturday revealed the names of four alleged notorious criminals who were reportedly involved in the violence that broke out during a student protest at Dharmatala on Friday and the attack on members of the media. Addressing the West Bengal Assembly, the Chief Minister claimed that the individuals were not students but organised troublemakers who had joined the protest with the intention of creating unrest.

Shuvendu Adhikari stated that strict action would be taken against all those accused in the incident under the recently passed Public Safety Act. He made it clear that the government would not spare anyone involved in spreading violence or disturbing public order.

The Assembly, the Chief Minister said that around 70 people have so far been identified in connection with the Dharmatala violence. Among those named were Afroz from Rajabagan, Nahid from Khidirpur, Tanvir from Ekbalpore and Rahul Jamal from Watgunge. According to the Chief Minister, none of them had any connection with student activities and they allegedly participated in the protest with the objective of creating violence.

The Chief Minister further informed the Assembly that a total of seven First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered in connection with the violence at Dharmatala and the alleged attacks on journalists. He said that various sections of the Public Safety Act have been added to all the cases to ensure strict legal action against those responsible.

Shuvendu Adhikari said that the government would take strong measures against criminal elements involved in such incidents. Referring to the need for strict laws to control organised violence, he said that the anti-goonda law was introduced to deal effectively with people who threaten public safety and law and order.

"We have created the law to take effective action against such anti-social elements. We will take such steps that not only they but even their three generations will remember it. Now the common people of the state will also understand why such a law was necessary," the Chief Minister said while addressing the Assembly.

The Chief Minister also explained the role of the police during the protest and said that clear instructions had been given to law enforcement personnel to avoid using force unless the situation went completely out of control. He praised the patience and restraint shown by police officers who were deployed at the spot.

Shuvendu Adhikari, despite facing provocation and attacks, the police maintained discipline and handled the law and order situation with restraint. He stated that the administration’s priority was to maintain peace while ensuring that those responsible for violence were brought under the ambit of the law.

The Dharmatala violence has sparked political debate in West Bengal, with the government defending its decision to take strict action against those involved, while opposition parties are expected to raise questions over the handling of protests and the use of security laws.

The investigation into the incident is currently underway, and police officials are examining evidence and identifying other individuals allegedly involved in the violence. Authorities have indicated that further action will be taken after completion of the investigation.