Clash at Jadavpur University: Education Minister’s car attacked, several injured in protest

A major clash erupted at Jadavpur University on Saturday during the annual Web Coup meeting after members of the Students' Federation of India (SFI) protested outside the venue, demanding a discussion with Education Minister Bratya Basu and the immediate conduct of student union elections. The protest soon turned violent as SFI members allegedly vandalized the minister’s car upon his arrival on campus.

Eyewitnesses reported that as Basu’s car approached, SFI activists surrounded the vehicle, shouting slogans and hitting it. Tensions escalated further when a scuffle broke out between SFI and Trinamool Congress Chhatra Parishad (TMCP) members. The altercation quickly turned into a physical clash, with both groups engaging in heated confrontations.

To control the situation, security personnel swiftly escorted Education Minister Bratya Basu inside the Web Coup meeting hall through Gate No. 3. However, the unrest did not subside, and reports indicate that Professor Omprakash Mishra, who was attending the meeting, was also manhandled in the chaos. Several teachers and students sustained injuries during the violent clash.

The SFI, a Left-affiliated student body, has been vocal in its demand for student union elections, which have not been conducted in many universities across West Bengal. They accuse the ruling TMCP of suppressing democratic student representation. On the other hand, TMCP members alleged that the SFI deliberately created chaos and resorted to vandalism instead of peaceful protests.

As the situation spiraled out of control, university authorities and police intervened to disperse the warring factions. The injured individuals were given medical aid, though the exact number of casualties remains unclear. The police have not yet confirmed whether any arrests were made.

With the incident sparking fresh tensions in student politics, both the SFI and TMCP are expected to escalate their campaigns. Meanwhile, Education Minister Bratya Basu has condemned the violence, stating that the government will take necessary steps to ensure the campus remains peaceful and democratic.