How are security measures being enforced to prevent protesters during the march to the Bengal secretariat?
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Synopsis
The West Bengal Police and Kolkata Police are on high alert with strict security measures in place to prevent a march to the state secretariat, marking the anniversary of a tragic incident. Learn more about the implications of these actions and the ongoing call for justice.
Key Takeaways
- Tight security arrangements have been implemented by police in Kolkata.
- Traffic restrictions are in effect until 10 P.M. on Saturday.
- Protestors are being blocked with barricades and water cannons.
- Parents of the victim demand justice during the Nabanna Avijan.
- The case remains under investigation by the CBI.
Kolkata, Aug 9 (NationPress) In a proactive measure, the West Bengal Police and Kolkata Police have established stringent security protocols and implemented traffic restrictions since the early hours of Saturday, in anticipation of the 'Nabanna Avijan' (march to the state secretariat) scheduled for later today. This event marks the first anniversary of the tragic R.G. Kar rape and murder.
The primary objective is to effectively halt the protestors well away from the state secretariat, situated at Mandirtala in Kolkata, adjacent to Howrah District.
Kolkata Police announced that there will be traffic restrictions on several key roads in Kolkata until 10 P.M. on Saturday. During this timeframe, all forms of goods vehicles, excluding emergency services, will be barred from these routes.
Following directives from Lalbazar (Kolkata police headquarters), traffic will be limited on Vidyasagar Setu, Kidderpore Road, Taratala Road, Circular Garden Reach Road, and Hyde Road.
Other affected routes include Jawaharlal Nehru Road, RR Avenue, Red Road, Dufferin Road, Mayo Road, AJC Bose Road, SN Banerjee Road, MG Road, Brabourne Road, and Howrah Bridge.
Simultaneously, police forces have commenced preparations to obstruct the Nabanna march.
To restrict the movement of protestors, steel barricades, containers, and water cannons have been strategically placed in various locations. Barricades are also set up at multiple spots.
According to police sources, barricades are established on all avenues leading to the Vidyasagar bridge to avert any processions heading towards Nabanna.
Aluminum guardrails have been positioned on Turf View Road, Hastings Mazar, Furlong Gate, and Kidderpore Road.
Meanwhile, Howrah City Police are maintaining a vigilant watch, and security measures have been intensified along the roads leading to the state secretariat. Barricades are established at various locations, including Foreshore Road, Kazipara, and Santragachi in Howrah.
The parents of the victim have initiated the Nabanna Abhijan for August 9 and have called upon all political entities, excluding the ruling Trinamool Congress, to partake in the procession devoid of their party flags, demanding justice for their daughter on the anniversary of her death.
The victim’s body was discovered in a seminar hall within the hospital premises on the morning of August 9.
While the sole convict in the case, civic volunteer Sanjay Roy, has been sentenced to life imprisonment by a trial court, the Central Bureau of Investigation has yet to conclude its investigation into the purported 'larger conspiracy' surrounding the crime, even after a year.
Point of View
It is crucial to emphasize the balance between security enforcement and the fundamental right to protest. While the police are tasked with maintaining order, the community's voice and quest for justice must also be acknowledged.
NationPress
08/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Nabanna Avijan?
The Nabanna Avijan is a march to the state secretariat in Kolkata, organized by the parents of a victim seeking justice on the anniversary of her tragic death.
Why are security measures heightened?
Security measures are heightened to prevent potential protests following the tragic anniversary of the R.G. Kar rape and murder case.
What traffic restrictions are in place?
Traffic restrictions are imposed on several key roads in Kolkata, with all goods vehicles, except emergency services, banned until 10 P.M.
Who is responsible for the victim's case?
The sole convict, Sanjay Roy, has been sentenced to life imprisonment, but the investigation into a larger conspiracy remains ongoing.
What is the community's response to the security measures?
The community expresses a strong desire for justice while also feeling the impact of the stringent security measures on their right to protest.
