Kolkata, 3 September (H.S.): Tensions flared at the Sealdah court premises on Wednesday as workers of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress came face-to-face following the arrest of BJP leader Rakesh Singh. The situation quickly escalated, with police barricades being torn down and the court complex turning into a virtual battleground.

Singh, who was arrested late Tuesday night from Tangra, was produced in court on Wednesday. As police escorted him into the premises, Congress workers had already gathered with party flags. Soon after, BJP supporters also arrived. Singh greeted his followers with a raised hand while stepping out of the police vehicle, further intensifying the charged atmosphere.

BJP workers shouted slogans of “Modi-Modi,” while Congress supporters retaliated with chants of “Chor-Chor, Vote Chor, Gaddi Chhod.” BJP alleged that Congress mobilized its supporters by luring them with packets of biryani, a charge dismissed by Congress workers who in turn branded BJP leaders as “thieves.”

Amid the verbal duel, workers from both sides tried to break through police barricades. Despite a heavy police deployment, the barricades were eventually dismantled from both sides, leading to multiple rounds of confrontations inside the court premises.

Authorities struggled to bring the situation under control, with tensions lingering for hours despite repeated attempts to restore order.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh