KOLKATA, India — : Kolkata Police have arrested three more individuals in connection with the alleged assault on journalists, attacks on police personnel, and acts of vandalism during protests against the alleged NEET examination paper leak in central Kolkata. With the latest arrests, the total number of people taken into custody in the case has risen to 14, according to police officials.
The incident occurred in Dharmatala, one of Kolkata’s busiest public and political gathering areas, where demonstrations intensified following nationwide protests over alleged irregularities in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET).
Police Arrest Three More Suspects
According to Additional Commissioner of Police (Detective Department) Kunal Agarwal, investigators arrested three additional suspects on Sunday after identifying them as allegedly involved in the violence.
The arrested individuals were identified by police as:
- Shahbaz Khan (34) from the Karaya Police Station area.
- Sheikh Mohammad Salman Hussain (29) from the Rajabagan area.
- Mohammad Zahiruddin Molla (32) from Bhangar.
Police officials stated that two of the suspects were allegedly attempting to leave West Bengal when they were intercepted near the Durgapur Expressway and taken into custody.
The latest arrests follow the detention of 11 other suspects on Saturday, bringing the total number of arrests to 14.
Violence During NEET Protest
The demonstration was part of a broader movement demanding accountability over the alleged NEET question paper leak, an issue that has triggered protests in several parts of India.
Authorities said the protest in Dharmatala turned violent, with allegations that some participants:
- Assaulted journalists covering the event
- Attacked on-duty police personnel
- Obstructed law enforcement officers
- Damaged public and private property
The reported attacks on members of the media have drawn widespread attention and raised concerns regarding the safety of journalists covering public demonstrations.
Police Deny Political Party Link
Police sources stated that none of the individuals arrested so far are members of the organization known as the “Cockroach Janata Party.”
According to investigators, the organization sent an email to Kolkata Police denying any involvement in the violence and stating that none of the accused are associated with the party or its activities.
Police have not indicated any evidence linking the arrested individuals to that political group at this stage of the investigation.
Multiple Criminal Cases Registered
Authorities confirmed that six separate First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered in connection with the incident.
Each case is being investigated independently, covering allegations that include:
- Assault on journalists
- Assault on police officers
- Obstructing public servants while performing official duties
- Creating public disorder
- Vandalism and property damage
Evidence Collection Underway
Investigators are continuing to identify additional suspects through multiple sources of evidence, including:
- CCTV surveillance footage
- Television news recordings
- Mobile phone videos
- Eyewitness testimonies
- Digital forensic analysis
Police officials said further arrests may follow if additional individuals are identified during the ongoing investigation.
Background of the Protest
The protest in Kolkata was part of wider demonstrations that began in New Delhi over allegations concerning the NEET examination paper leak. As demonstrations spread to other cities, the Kolkata protest gained significant attention after violence broke out in the Dharmatala area.
The incident has intensified debate over maintaining law and order during public demonstrations while ensuring the safety of journalists and freedom of the press.
Investigation Continues
Kolkata Police have stated that the investigation remains active and ongoing. Officials say they are examining all available evidence to determine individual responsibility and ensure that anyone found involved in the alleged violence is dealt with according to the law.
As legal proceedings continue, the accused are entitled to the presumption of innocence unless and until guilt is established in a court of law.
