Calcutta HC Permits BJP to Protest Against Durgapur Gangrape?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- BJP Protest: Continued until October 19.
- Calcutta HC Ruling: Balances protest rights and public safety.
- Gangrape Incident: Victim attacked outside the college.
- Public Gatherings: Restricted near college due to exams.
- Arrests Made: Five suspects in police custody.
Kolkata, Oct 14 (NationPress) A single-judge bench of the Calcutta High Court granted permission on Tuesday for the West Bengal BJP to continue their protest outside the private medical college and hospital in Durgapur, located in the West Burdwan district, until October 19. This demonstration is in response to the gangrape incident involving a second-year student.
Earlier that day, the West Bengal BJP had approached the Calcutta High Court with a request to conduct their protest near the medical college, after the Asansol-Durgapur Police Commissionerate had denied them permission.
During the hearing later on Tuesday, the Calcutta High Court ultimately allowed the party to proceed with their demonstration until the specified date.
Justice Shampa Dutt (Paul) emphasized that while law enforcement must ensure the maintenance of order and the safety of the medical institution, the BJP should be permitted to hold a peaceful protest there until October 19.
Previously, the same judge also ordered that no outsiders may enter the medical college and hospital grounds without prior authorization from the authorities. This decision was made following a petition from state officials who sought to eliminate public gatherings outside the college due to ongoing examinations.
The gangrape incident occurred on the night of October 10, after the victim left the college premises around 8 p.m. to buy food. She was subsequently taken to a nearby forested area and assaulted. To date, five individuals have been arrested in connection with the case, all of whom are currently in police custody.