Kolkata Police have arrested 14 persons in connection with violence and attacks on police personnel and journalists during a NEET protest rally in Kolkata on 24 July 2026, with three fresh arrests made between Saturday night and Sunday. The rally, held against the NEET examination paper leak and related exam irregularities, turned violent, prompting seven FIRs including a suo motu case filed by the city police.

The Fresh Arrests

The three newly arrested individuals have been identified as Shahbaz Khan, a resident of the Karaya area in south-eastern Kolkata; Sheikh Muhammad Salman Hossain, a resident of the Rajabagan area of Garden Reach in the southern outskirts; and Muhammad Zahiruddin, a resident of the Bhangar area, also in the southern outskirts of Kolkata. They were taken into custody following sustained surveillance operations.

The earlier 11 arrests were made after police identified suspects through CCTV footage and video recordings of the violence. Authorities have so far identified 70 persons involved in the incident and say the investigation is ongoing.

Who Organised the Rally

The protest march was jointly organised by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and the students' and youth wings of various Left parties. It was called in response to the NEET paper leak controversy and broader exam-related scandals that have triggered demonstrations across several Indian cities in recent weeks.

Notably, according to police sources, none of the 14 persons arrested so far are students or have any established connection to the NEET examination. Authorities allege the accused were involved in orchestrating violence and provoking law enforcement personnel during the demonstrations — not in the legitimate protest itself.

What the Chief Minister Said

Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, addressing the West Bengal Assembly on Saturday, alleged that anti-social elements from several Kolkata localities — including Rajabazar, Kidderpore, Park Circus, Garden Reach, and Ekbalpur — were responsible for the attacks on police personnel and media persons. He claimed their intent was to provoke police into using force, thereby escalating tensions and creating, in his words, 'a drama.'

'They wanted the police to use force by resorting to baton-charge and firing of teargas shells. They intended to aggravate the tension and thus create a drama. Fortunately, the police did not fall into that trap. But they continued their attacks,' Adhikari said.

Legal Action and New Law

The Chief Minister warned that those found guilty would face action under the newly enacted West Bengal Public Safety & Control of Anti-Social Activities Act, 2026, which provides for stricter measures against violent and anti-social conduct. This marks one of the first high-profile invocations of the legislation since its passage.

With 70 suspects identified and investigations active across multiple FIRs, further arrests are expected in the coming days as police continue to process footage from the 24 July rally.