Kolkata, March 2 – West Bengal Education Minister Bratya Basu’s vehicle was attacked inside Jadavpur University on Saturday as student protests turned violent.
What Happened?
- Basu was attending a teachers’ association meeting when students, demanding student union elections, confronted him.
- Shoes were thrown at his car, the windshield was smashed, and the tyre was punctured.
- Trinamool Congress office inside the university was vandalized.
- Students blocked traffic outside the campus and clashed with teachers.
Protests Over Student Union Elections
- Elections have been withheld for five years, fueling student anger.
- Students alleged they were attacked by Trinamool Congress-backed outsiders.
- The Students’ Federation of India (SFI), the student wing of CPI(M), was blamed by the Minister.
- SFI denied the allegations, claiming Basu’s vehicle ran over students.
Political Reactions & Aftermath
- Basu was taken to SSKM Medical College for a medical check-up.
- Trinamool Congress leaders condemned the attack, warning against mistaking their restraint for weakness.
- Professors also reported being physically attacked during the protest.
- Students plan a university-wide strike on Monday to protest against the violence.
With tensions escalating, both students and political groups are firm on their stance, setting the stage for further confrontations.