14 arrested so far for assault during Dharmatala NEET protest rally

Kolkata Police have arrested 14 individuals in connection with the violence and assault on journalists that erupted during Friday's NEET protest march at Dharmatala. Following strict directives from Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, the Anti-Rowdy Section of Lalbazar expanded its crackdown, arresting three more suspects—Shahbaz Khan, Sheikh Mohammad Salman Hossain, and Mohammad Zahiruddin Mal—by Sunday morning. Previously, 11 people were detained, including two who were intercepted near Andal on the Durgapur Expressway while attempting to flee the state.

Law enforcement agencies have registered seven FIRs across local police stations, invoking provisions under the state's newly enacted Anti-Gang Act. Police utilized CCTV footage and video recordings from Dorina Crossing to identify perpetrators who hurled shoes, water bottles, and stones at police personnel and media workers. Six journalists sustained injuries during the clashes and received medical treatment.

Addressing the Assembly, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari stated that around 70 perpetrators have been identified so far, confirming that none of the arrested individuals are actual students or members of the organizing bodies. He emphasized that outsiders were brought into the demonstration from various parts of the city to instigate unrest. Search operations remain ongoing as Lalbazar continues tracking the remaining suspects.