Kolkata Police DCPs Face Show-Cause Notices After Political Clashes
Kolkata Police has issued show-cause notices to two Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) in the aftermath of violent confrontations between Trinamool Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party workers. The incidents occurred at the Election Commission office on April 1 and at Kalighat on April 2, escalating political tensions in the city.
Security Lapses Lead to Disciplinary Action
According to official sources, Siddhartha Dutta, DC II (South) of Kolkata Police, and Manas Roy, DC 2 (Reserve Force), have been handed show-cause notices by Lalbazar police headquarters. Both officers were responsible for security arrangements during the political rallies that turned violent.
The disciplinary action follows a major security breach on Thursday when Union Home Minister Amit Shah accompanied Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari to file his nomination for the Bhowanipore assembly constituency. During the rally, Trinamool protesters shouted slogans, leading to a direct confrontation between workers of both political parties.
Multiple FIRs Registered in Connection with Clashes
Police have registered multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) related to the incidents. At Alipore Police Station, two FIRs were filed—one based on a formal complaint by the Election Commission regarding violation of the Model Code of Conduct, and another initiated by the police themselves.
A third FIR was registered suo motu by Kalighat Police Station. These legal actions come as authorities begin reviewing multiple cross-complaints lodged by both the Trinamool Congress and BJP.
Political Accusations and Counter-Accusations
The Election Commission's FIR specifically claimed that the Trinamool congregation was illegal, as no prior permission had been obtained. In response, Trinamool spokesperson Riju Dutta accused the EC of bias and incompetence.
"The Election Commission is acting at the behest of the BJP by facilitating the entry of 'outsiders' from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh while unfairly targeting TMC protesters with legal action," Dutta alleged.
BJP spokesperson Debjit Sarkar countered these claims, stating that "the unrest was a clear sign of the TMC's waning influence and desperation as elections approach."
Earlier FIR Against KMC Councillors
This latest development follows earlier FIRs registered by Hare Street Police Station against several individuals, including two Kolkata Municipal Corporation councillors—Santi Ranjan Kundu (ward 32) and Sachin Singh (ward 36)—regarding the April 1 fracas at the EC office.
Both councillors face non-bailable charges and have been summoned for questioning within the next three days. They have vehemently denied the allegations against them.
"We were nowhere near the EC office. We maintained a safe 200-meter distance from the commission office. We condemn this highly politically motivated move," said Kundu.
Singh added: "We are public representatives and not hooligans. We went to the spot with the intention of protecting the interests of the voters. Whatever is happening regarding Form 6 is highly suspicious, and we need to be more vigilant to thwart any conspiracy."
Administrative Response and Ongoing Investigations
A senior home department official has informed Bengal Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Agarwal that an action-taken report on the April 1 incident would be submitted on Sunday. Meanwhile, a Trinamool delegation on Friday demanded the removal of the Bhowanipore Electoral Registration Officer, citing bias and alleging an out-of-turn appointment to favour the BJP.
The series of events has created a legal storm in Kolkata, with authorities now reviewing security protocols and political activities as the election season intensifies. The show-cause notices to senior police officers indicate serious concerns about security arrangements during high-profile political events.
