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The article delves into the recent protests in West Bengal, focusing on the clash between demonstrators and police at the state secretariat, Nabanna. The protests were sparked by the alleged rape-murder of a medical student, leading to calls for the resignation of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. A key figure in the narrative is Shashi Panja, the state's Minister of Women and Child Development, who casts doubt on the genuine nature of the protests.
Panja, in statements to India Today TV, questions whether the demonstrators, many of whom marched under the banner of 'Paschim Banga Chhatra Samaj,' were truly students. She cites the 'nefarious' agenda behind the protests, pointing to the junior doctors' disassociation from the organizing group. She further emphasizes the violence that erupted, with protesters pelting stones and bottles at police, prompting a response with lathi-charges, water cannons, and tear gas.
The article highlights the role of the opposition BJP in the events, alleging that the party orchestrated the protests. Panja claims that BJP members were actively promoting violence, leading to the escalation of the situation. Despite the protesters' aggression, the police are portrayed as exhibiting restraint and patience, resorting to force only after being attacked. The article concludes by reporting the BJP's call for a 12-hour general strike in West Bengal, a response to the police actions against the demonstrators.
Source: Bengal minster questions Nabanna protesters: 'Do they look like students?'