Kolkata, 21 August (H.S.).

The Indian Secular Front (ISF) on Thursday staged widespread demonstrations across West Bengal demanding the release of the party’s lone MLA, Naushad Siddiqui, along with several party workers who were arrested during a protest on Wednesday.

Siddiqui and his supporters were taken into custody following a demonstration against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, alleged harassment of Bengali migrant workers in BJP-ruled states, and the ongoing revision of the special voter list. He represents the Bhangar constituency in South 24 Parganas.

The protests turned intense outside Kolkata’s Bankshall Court, where Siddiqui was produced on Thursday. Supporters raised slogans and attempted to break through police barricades, prompting heightened security arrangements. In Haroa, North 24 Parganas district, ISF supporters burned tyres on the roads to protest the arrests.

Police deployed additional forces outside the court premises and set up barricades to prevent demonstrators from entering. Officials also urged protestors to help clear traffic congestion caused by the agitation.

ISF leaders accused the police of suppressing a peaceful movement. “Our leader and several workers were arrested only because we voiced opposition to the Waqf amendment and the exploitation of Bengali migrants. If they are not released immediately, we will intensify our agitation,” party leaders said.

During Wednesday’s protest, clashes broke out between ISF workers and police. Kolkata Police Deputy Commissioner (Central) Indira Mukherjee stated, “We had to use minimum force to remove the blockade and ensure smooth traffic. No reports of injuries have been received.”

Siddiqui and the arrested workers face charges of damaging public property.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh