CM Mamata slams jobless teachers protest for disrupting Bikash Bhavan, warns to respect legal boundaries

A protest by jobless but eligible teachers outside Kolkata’s Bikash Bhavan on Thursday escalated into a disruptive event, leading to the confinement of hundreds of government employees inside the building. Protesters reportedly blocked entry and exit points, preventing officials from leaving after office hours. Among those trapped were pregnant women and individuals with urgent family responsibilities, including one staff member whose elderly mother was reportedly ill.

Bikash Bhavan, located in Salt Lake, houses over 50 state government departments and employs more than 500 workers. During the protest, one candidate attempting to leave the premises allegedly jumped from a height and sustained a leg fracture, resulting in hospitalization. The incident triggered a police response to restore order and facilitate the exit of the trapped employees. The situation at the site became tense during the rescue operation.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee responded to the incident before departing for a three-day visit to North Bengal. Speaking at Dum Dum Airport, she stated, “I had enough sympathy. I still do. I had said we would review the matter. There are certain legal constraints in court. We filed a review petition. When the court gives a decision, we cannot say we won't accept it.” She also said that no salaries had been stopped and that Group C and D workers were receiving payments through a scheme.

Banerjee added that those allegedly instigating the protest were also the ones who had filed legal cases. “If the masterminds become guardians of self-interest, it becomes problematic,” she said. She emphasized that protest must not cross a limit. “There is a Lakshman Rekha to every movement. Holding people hostage is unacceptable,” she added. She urged the teachers to opt for legal remedies and show trust in the state government. “Courtesy and respect are expected,” she said.

She further stated that political motives may be involved and questioned why cases were filed if the intention was to support the teachers. Meanwhile, Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee, before his scheduled Delhi visit, urged the protesting teachers to ensure that their movement remains peaceful and does not disrupt public life or official functions.