Tensions escalate at JU after fire breaks out in Sikshabandhu office

Violence erupted at Jadavpur University on Saturday as Education Minister Bratya Basu was attacked by protesting students, and later, the office of Trinamool-backed employee union ‘Shikshabandhu’ was set on fire. Protesters reportedly deflated the tires of Basu’s vehicle, vandalized it, and pelted stones. The minister alleged that bricks were thrown at his car, causing injuries. Security personnel managed to escort him safely out of the campus.

Hours later, around 9:30 PM, a fire broke out at the ‘Shikshabandhu’ office inside the university. Firefighters brought the blaze under control after a long effort. The organization claimed that anti-social elements ransacked the office before setting it on fire. No casualties were reported, but damage to property was significant. The police have launched an investigation into the incident.

Jadavpur University Vice-Chancellor Bhaskar Gupta, who visited KPC Hospital to meet injured students, faced misconduct during his visit. "Some students suddenly approached me, pushed me, and behaved aggressively," Gupta said. He added that some students helped him get into a car and leave the hospital safely. The incident has added to the ongoing tensions on the campus.

Following the violence, the Left-affiliated student organization SFI accused Bratya Basu and his supporters of attacking students. SFI announced a statewide strike in all colleges and universities on Monday to protest against the alleged assault. Meanwhile, the Trinamool-backed teachers' organization WEBCUPA has planned a separate protest at Jadavpur’s 8B Bus Stand, also on Monday, condemning the attack on the education minister.

The unrest began when Bratya Basu arrived at the Open Air Theatre inside the university for a WEBCUPA meeting. Student groups affiliated with SFI, AISA, and DSF were already protesting, demanding student union elections. As the situation escalated, clashes broke out between students and security personnel. Authorities remain on high alert as tensions persist on the campus, with  groups planning further demonstrations.