Businessman’s car vandalized during Waqf rally on Kona Expressway

Kolkata’s Kona Expressway turned into a zone of tension on Thursday when the car of a businessman was vandalized during a Waqf rally procession. The incident occurred while a large group of people was on their way in a matador van to attend the rally. The businessman, Dinesh Garai, a resident of Asansol, was traveling with two armed security guards when the situation escalated.

According to eyewitnesses, traffic was moving slowly due to the volume of vehicles heading towards the rally. It is alleged that Garai’s security guard, in an attempt to clear the path, pointed his firearm at the matador carrying rally participants, urging them to let the businessman’s vehicle pass.

This gesture reportedly angered the crowd. In a fit of rage, some rally participants vandalized the businessman’s car, damaging the windshield and side mirrors. Fortunately, no one was injured in the incident.

Police reached the scene quickly and managed to bring the situation under control before it could spiral further. Officers diffused the crowd and ensured safe passage for all vehicles stuck in the area, including Garai’s.

Local law enforcement confirmed that they are reviewing CCTV footage from the area to verify claims of a weapon being pointed. A senior officer noted that strict action would be taken if the security guard’s conduct violated public safety norms.

The incident has raised fresh concerns about crowd control and the deployment of private armed personnel during public processions. While no FIR had been filed till late evening, police said both parties may be called in for questioning if preliminary evidence warrants it.