Adhir Chowdhury demands justice for constable who saved CM Mamata on 21st July, 1993

Adhir Chowdhury has brought attention to the actions of Siraj, a constable who intervened during the 21st July, 1993, protests, ultimately saving Mamata Banerjee's life. This day is annually observed by Trinamool Congress to honor the 13 individuals who lost their lives in police firing during a demonstration led by Mamata Banerjee, then the leader of the Youth Congress. The commemoration, known as Martyrs’ Day, witnesses large crowds paying tribute to those who died while protesting against the Left Front government in West Bengal.

On 21st July, 1993, Mamata Banerjee was injured during the police crackdown on the protestors. Siraj, a constable on duty during the incident, took action to stop further police firing. According to Adhir Chowdhury, Siraj raised his gun to stop the higher-ranking officers from firing at the protestors, which helped protect Mamata Banerjee from further harm. Despite his critical role in preventing additional casualties and saving Mamata's life, Siraj was dismissed from the police force, and he has not been given any form of recognition or support since then.

Chowdhury noted that while those responsible for the police firing that day were rewarded, Siraj, who displayed immense courage, was left without any compensation or reinstatement. Siraj, originally from Gaighata in West Midnapore and coming from a farming background, has faced difficulties following his dismissal. Despite multiple attempts to reach out to Mamata Banerjee for assistance, he has not received any promises of reinstatement or aid.

Chowdhury has publicly called for the reinstatement of Siraj’s job, stating that the constable’s actions on 21st July, 1993, should not go unrecognized. He also offered to provide legal support to Siraj if necessary, ensuring that Siraj’s fight for justice would have backing. This issue, raised by Chowdhury, highlights the unresolved matter of Siraj's dismissal and the lack of recognition for his brave intervention during a critical moment in the state’s political history.