Protesters refuse to back down from 'Nabanna March' despite HC ban and police denial

Despite not receiving police permission, several organisations including the West Bengal Vanchit Shikshak Berozgar Ekta Manch have announced they will carry out the Nabanna Abhiyan on Monday, July 28. The denial was based on a Calcutta High Court order that prohibits rallies or processions in Mangalhat on market days. Police cited the order while refusing to grant clearance for the march, which is set to begin at 12 noon from Howrah Station.

Bhaskar Ghosh, state coordinator of Sangrami Ekta Manch, said that protesters will proceed towards Nabanna via Grand Foreshore Road. He added that if police stop them at any point, they will stage sit-in demonstrations there. The group stated that their protest is based on specific demands and will be conducted peacefully. According to organisers, approximately 10,000 participants are expected to join the march.

The Calcutta High Court’s order came after traders from Mangalhat filed a petition claiming that frequent rallies were disrupting business activities. The court directed that on market days, no public gatherings should take place in the area. In response, protest groups said the rally is not intended to harm anyone’s livelihood and reiterated that the march is being held in a peaceful manner.

In preparation, Howrah City Police have deployed enhanced security measures across key points. Heavy barricades have been installed at three major locations. Access points to Nabanna are scheduled to be blocked. Surveillance drones will be deployed to monitor the rally’s movement, and water cannons are on standby. On Sunday night, Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari reached Howrah Station to speak with railway police officials and protest organisers.