Kolkata CP calls Kasba clash 'unfortunate', says 'police had no prior information'

A protest by jobless teachers in Kolkata’s Kasba area turned violent on Wednesday after the West Bengal police resorted to a lathi charge, leaving several protestors injured. The protestors, who had lost their jobs following a Supreme Court order, had gathered at various District Inspector (DI) offices, demanding the release of a list of eligible and ineligible candidates and immediate reinstatement to their teaching positions.

According to officials, the protest at the DI office in South Kolkata’s Kasba escalated when a group of protestors attempted to lock the office gates, prompting police to intervene. In the ensuing chaos, batons were used to disperse the crowd. Two of the injured protestors were admitted to a nearby hospital, while a police officer also sustained serious injuries during the scuffle.

Speaking on the incident, Manoj Verma, Kolkata CP said, “If any protest or program is conducted after informing the police in advance, we will help. We had no prior information. The incident in Kasba is unfortunate. One of our police personnel has also sustained serious injuries.”

Chief Secretary Manoj Pant also addressed the issue, terming the incident “condemnable” and urging the teachers to maintain peace. “The government stands with those who have lost their jobs. We are reviewing the decision legally. If they wish, they can rejoin schools from tomorrow, although no official government order will be issued for this,” he stated. His remarks suggest a possibility for teachers to return to classrooms without fresh government directives.

The protest follows a recent Supreme Court order that led to the termination of several teachers due to irregularities in the recruitment process. The affected individuals have since been protesting across the state, seeking transparency and justice. Their primary demand remains the publication of a detailed eligibility list and a clear roadmap for reinstatement.