Kolkata has been rocked by two violent road rage incidents within 48 hours, leaving five individuals injured and prompting the city police to issue a public appeal for calm. The assaults occurred in the northern neighbourhoods of Sinthee and Nimtala, involving disputes over right of way and parking.
Elderly Woman and Son Attacked in Sinthee
The first episode unfolded on January 3 around 2 pm near the Sinthee Chors Club. According to a written complaint filed with the police, Sourav Basak was driving out of a narrow street on Dum Dum Road when a white car approached from the opposite direction. The lane became blocked, forcing both drivers to manoeuvre carefully to pass each other.
Basak alleged that to prevent contact, he folded the rear-view mirror of the other vehicle. This action, however, was perceived as a provocation by the occupants of the white car. The complaint identifies the assailants as Arijit Adhikary and his wife, Sangita, who are residents of the same area.
Sourav Basak claimed that Arijit Adhikary grabbed his hand, twisted a finger causing a severe sprain, and punched him. The altercation also involved Basak's 65-year-old mother, Rita Basak, who was reportedly assaulted. Both the mother and son subsequently sought medical treatment at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. Basak submitted medical reports and supporting documents along with his police complaint.
In a counter-complaint, Arijit Adhikary presented a different version of events. He alleged that it was Sourav Basak who attacked him and his wife, Sangita, pushing her to the ground and causing injuries.
Parking Dispute Turns Ugly in Nimtala
Almost a day later, a second incident was reported from the Nimtala Lane area. On January 4 around 12:30 pm, Shyambazar Police registered a case based on a complaint by a 48-year-old woman.
The victim alleged that a man named Pappu Roy wrongfully restrained her, pushed her, used filthy language, and outraged her modesty. The confrontation reportedly began over the parking of her car on the road in front of Roy's residence on Nimtala Lane. The dispute escalated rapidly from a verbal argument to physical assault and threats.
Police Take to Social Media with Appeal
In response to these back-to-back violent outbreaks, the Kolkata Police utilised its official social media platform to address the public. The force issued an appeal on Facebook, urging commuters and residents to avoid confrontations and maintain composure on the roads.
The police warning highlighted that minor disputes can quickly escalate into serious violence, especially during the winter season when traffic congestion and shorter tempers may be prevalent. The appeal emphasised the importance of restraint and peaceful resolution of on-road disagreements.
These incidents have put a spotlight on the growing concern over road rage and aggressive driving behaviour in the city. Authorities are investigating both cases thoroughly as they work to prevent similar outbreaks of violence in the future.
