What prompted the ISF protest in Kolkata against migrant workers' harassment?
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Synopsis
On August 20, the Indian Secular Front's protest led by MLA Nawsad Siddiqui in Kolkata raised crucial issues surrounding the harassment of Bengali migrant workers and the SIR proposal. Amidst police intervention and allegations of violence, the protest highlighted the ongoing struggle for democratic rights in West Bengal. Learn more about the implications for local governance and migrant rights.
Key Takeaways
- ISF Protest: Highlighted issues of migrant worker harassment.
- Police Intervention: Led to allegations of violence against demonstrators.
- Democratic Rights: Emphasizes the ongoing struggle for civil liberties.
- Political Context: ISF's role in West Bengal's governance remains crucial.
- Investigation: Ongoing inquiry into the police's conduct during the protest.
Kolkata, Aug 20 (NationPress) Workers from the Indian Secular Front (ISF), led by MLA Nawsad Siddiqui, staged a protest at the Metro Channel in Esplanade, Kolkata, on Wednesday to address multiple pressing issues. The ISF activists voiced their concerns against the Election Commission's proposed SIR (Special Intensive Revision), the mistreatment of Bengali migrant workers outside West Bengal, the Waqf Amendment Act, and the challenges surrounding OBC certificates.
Despite lacking authorization for the demonstration, police intervened and detained several ISF members, including Siddiqui. The MLA claimed that he was subjected to physical violence by officers, stating, "I was punched and physically assaulted. I am facing harassment for exercising my democratic right to protest," as he was escorted into a police van.
As the protesters remained steadfast, tensions escalated, leading to clashes with law enforcement. Siddiqui emphasized their intention to conduct a peaceful protest addressing the Waqf (Amendment) Act, the harassment of Bengali-speaking migrant workers, and the government's attempt to remove citizens' names from the voter's list under the guise of implementing SIR. He remarked, "Our protest was peaceful, and we had requested permission. However, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's administration has consistently obstructed our efforts to demonstrate, even briefly."
Siddiqui and his colleagues were subsequently taken to Jorasankho Police Station, where he fell ill due to the alleged assault. He was later transported to Calcutta Medical College and Hospital for necessary medical attention.
Siddiqui is the sole ISF representative in the 294-seat West Bengal Legislative Assembly. In the 2021 state elections, the ISF participated in a coalition with the CPI-M and the Indian National Congress, managing to secure just one seat, which Siddiqui won from the Bhangar constituency in South 24 Parganas.
Indira Mukherjee, the Deputy Commissioner of Police for Kolkata's central division, stated that minimal force was used to disperse the crowd and restore traffic flow in the area. "We employed minimal force to remove the ISF blockade, ensuring the resumption of traffic in this busy area. No injuries have been reported during this operation," she explained.
In response to the allegations against the police regarding Siddiqui's treatment, she assured, "We are investigating the matter."
Point of View
I acknowledge the complexities surrounding the recent ISF protest in Kolkata. While the right to protest is a cornerstone of democracy, the balance between public order and individual rights remains crucial. The allegations of police violence and the concerns raised by the ISF highlight the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized communities, especially migrant workers. It's essential to approach this situation with an understanding of the broader implications for governance and civil rights in our nation.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the main issues raised during the ISF protest?
The ISF protest addressed multiple issues, including the harassment of Bengali migrant workers, the proposed SIR (Special Intensive Revision), and the Waqf Amendment Act.
What happened to Nawsad Siddiqui during the protest?
Nawsad Siddiqui claimed he was physically assaulted by police while being detained for participating in the protest.
What is the significance of the ISF in West Bengal's political landscape?
The ISF is a significant player in West Bengal politics, having contested the 2021 elections in alliance with Left parties and securing one seat in the legislative assembly.
How did the police respond to the protest?
The police stated they used minimal force to disperse the protest to restore traffic flow and reported no injuries during the operation.
What is the current situation regarding the investigation into Siddiqui's claims?
The police have announced they are looking into the allegations of physical assault made by Siddiqui during the protest.
