A day after visuals of police lathi-charging protesting teachers outside Bikash Bhawan sparked public outrage, the West Bengal Police defended their actions, citing concerns over the safety of trapped individuals and alleging that protesters turned violent, injuring 19 police personnel.
Supratim Sarkar, Additional Director General (ADG) of South Bengal, addressed the media on Thursday evening to clarify the events that unfolded. He said that while the protest had remained peaceful for 10 days, the situation spiraled on Thursday when the crowd swelled to 2,000–2,500 people, who then broke police barricades and blocked all exits of the state Education Department building.“The protestors declared that no one would be allowed to leave the building. We have respect for their sentiments. If we had wanted to use force, we could have done so earlier when the gates were breached,” Sarkar said.
Trapped Staff and Panic Calls
Bikash Bhawan, which houses over 55 government offices, became a focal point of concern when police received panic calls from employees, including one from a pregnant woman. Despite nearly seven hours of negotiation, the protestors allegedly refused to let anyone exit.“Our intent was not to stifle protest but to ensure the safety of those trapped inside,” Sarkar stressed.
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Violence and Injuries Alleged
According to the police, the situation deteriorated further when bricks and bottles were hurled at officers attempting to evacuate people. Nineteen policemen were injured, and Bidhannagar Municipal Corporation Chairman Sabyasachi Dutta, who was present for official work, was reportedly heckled and his car obstructed.“This is not how democratic protest should be conducted,” said Sarkar, adding that legal action would be taken against those who “instigated” the violence.
Measured Force, No Tear Gas or Water Cannons: Police
Jawed Shamim, ADG Law and Order, reiterated that while force was used, it was measured and proportionate. “There was no rampant lathi charge, and neither tear gas nor water cannons were deployed,” he stated.“Teachers are pillars of society. We expected cooperation. Unfortunately, we had to respond to ensure the safety of others. We can show video evidence of the police being assaulted,” Shamim added.
Democratic Rights vs. Disruption
Both ADGs maintained that peaceful protest is a democratic right, but vandalism and obstruction of government functioning cross a constitutional boundary.“The protestors must answer for their actions. Law and rights apply to everyone. Our objective is to maintain peace,” Sarkar said.
Despite the police’s defense and impending legal proceedings, the teachers have vowed to continue their demonstration outside Bikash Bhawan, demanding reinstatement of their jobs and a fair hearing from the government.
