A coalition of communist parties, human rights groups, and civil society organized the rally as a peaceful protest against rising militarization and divisive politics
News Desk
KOLKATA: Thousands gathered in Kolkata to voice their opposition to what they described as the Modi government’s aggressive war policies, creating a charged atmosphere in the city streets. The protestors, united by a shared desire for peace, raised powerful slogans condemning extremism and called urgently for the government to abandon confrontational politics. Instead, they urged the ruling party to resolve all outstanding disputes with neighboring Pakistan through diplomatic dialogue rather than hostility.
The rally, organized by a coalition of communist parties, human rights organizations, and civil society groups, was intended as a peaceful demonstration against growing militarization and the politics of division. However, what began as a determined call for peace quickly spiraled into chaos when activists associated with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) confronted the protestors. Eyewitnesses described scenes of violence, with BJP supporters pushing, beating, and targeting demonstrators, escalating tensions and leaving many shocked by the outbreak of aggression in what was meant to be a peaceful gathering.
Those participating in the protest strongly condemned the violent behavior, demanding that those responsible for the attacks be held accountable under the law. Their grievances went beyond the immediate violence, reflecting deeper frustrations with what they see as a political climate increasingly defined by intolerance and suppression of dissent.
The incident in Kolkata has highlighted the fraught political atmosphere in India, where peaceful protests are often met with hostility, and divisions are exacerbated by aggressive political rhetoric. For the organizers, the protest was a crucial reminder of the urgent need for dialogue and reconciliation at a time when many fear that the path towards conflict threatens to overshadow the pursuit of peace. As voices calling for calm and diplomacy continue to be challenged, the events in Kolkata stand as a stark illustration of the ongoing struggle over the country’s future direction.
