Tuesday, 15 October 2024
Tuesday, 15 October 2024
Calcutta high court on Tuesday scrapped the prohibitory orders imposed by the Bengal government in areas near the Durga Puja Carnival on Red Road. The decision came after the junior doctors’ challenged the restrictions imposed by the state government.
The junior doctors, protesting against the rape and murder at RG Kar Medical College, had planned a 'Droha' (unrest) carnival on Rani Rashmoni Road, close to the official Durga Puja Carnival site. They were relieved when the court order resulted in the removal of barricades.
As the state-organised Durga Puja Carnival – a brainchild of chief minister Mamata Banerkee – started off, showcasing award-winning idols and the biggest Durga Pujas of Bengal, the protesters continued to proceed to the nearby area, demanding justice.
Dr Tapabrata Roy, part of the municipal corporation’s medical team at the Red Road government event, was detained by police for wearing a badge that read ‘Pratiki Anashankari’ [symbolic hunger striker]. He has been taken to Maidan police station, sources said.
The protesters chanted slogans calling for justice. Their voices could be heard over the music and celebration of the carnival nearby.
Many protesters broke out in song and dance.
The Durga Puja Carnival is also being attended by people from all walks of life. Yet, the protest remained a powerful undercurrent to the festive atmosphere.
As the carnival continued on Red Road, the peaceful protest nearby created a striking contrast.
