Kolkata, August 27 – The streets of Kolkata are ablaze with fervent slogans like "Legche Ray, Blood is on fire" and "We want justice," as protesters demand the resignation of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The widespread unrest, which has turned parts of the city into a battleground, stems from growing public outrage over the recent rape and murder of a female doctor at RG Kar Hospital.

Protesters have attempted to breach the West Bengal State Secretariat, "Nabanna," but were met with heavy resistance from the police. Undeterred, they continue to march through the streets, chanting and holding placards with slogans like "Dafa one demand one, Mamata's resignation." The mood in Kolkata mirrors the spirit of Bangladesh's recent anti-discrimination student movement, with chants from Dhaka finding their echo among the people of Kolkata.

According to reports from local media outlet Anandabazar, significant clashes erupted between police and protesters on Tuesday at various key locations, including Mahatma Gandhi Road, Kolkata Police Training School, Santragachi, and Howrah Bridge. The protests turned violent, with demonstrators hurling bricks, resulting in a police officer sustaining severe injuries after being hit in the head.

The unrest has forced the closure of the Kona Expressway, causing significant traffic disruptions. Commuters are increasingly relying on the metro to reach their destinations amid the chaos on the roads.

The demonstrations, which began as a response to the tragic incident at RG Kar Hospital, have now expanded into a broader movement calling for the Chief Minister's resignation. Protesters attempted to breach police barricades at various points, including Howrah Bridge, as part of their "Nabanna Abhiyan" initiative to surround the Chief Minister’s office. To control the escalating situation, police resorted to baton charges and periodically fired tear gas. Several protesters have been arrested, and there are claims of numerous injuries due to police action.

In response to the ongoing protests, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has called for a 12-hour statewide bandh (general strike) on Wednesday, August 28, to show solidarity with the student movement. BJP State President Sukant Majumder announced the strike during a press conference, stating that the bandh will be in effect from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday.

With tensions running high and security measures tightened across Kolkata, the situation remains volatile as the city grapples with one of the most significant protest movements in recent years.