Kolkata, 08 June (H.S.) : A large-scale anti-encroachment drive near Jadavpur Railway Station in Kolkata turned violent on Sunday night after clashes broke out between security forces and protesters opposing the eviction of roadside hawkers and alleged illegal structures.

According to officials, tension escalated around the 212 Bus Stand area when railway authorities, backed by state police, Government Railway Police (GRP), and central security personnel, began removing temporary stalls and encroachments as part of a clearance operation. The presence of bulldozers triggered immediate resistance from local shopkeepers as well as political activists belonging to Left and Congress-aligned organisations.

Protesters alleged that the eviction drive was being carried out without adequate rehabilitation measures and in violation of legal procedures and court directives. The situation deteriorated further as some demonstrators reportedly attempted to block the bulldozers, with a few even climbing onto the machines during the protest.

As tensions spiralled, police resorted to lathi-charge to disperse the crowd. Several protesters were injured in the ensuing clashes. Among those injured was noted theatre personality Jayraj Bhattacharya, who was admitted to a nearby hospital after sustaining a serious head injury.

CPI(M) youth leader Srijan Bhattacharyya was detained along with several others during the operation. While being escorted into a police vehicle, Bhattacharyya told reporters that the eviction was “illegal” and carried out without proper rehabilitation or due legal process, alleging that it amounted to a violation of court orders.

The protest also drew participation from various public figures, including actor Ushasi Chakraborty and Congress leader Sourav Prasad, who criticised the administration’s handling of the eviction drive and demanded proper rehabilitation for affected hawkers.

Following the incident, the area around Jadavpur Railway Station remains heavily guarded, with police patrols intensified to prevent further unrest. Authorities have stated that the situation is being closely monitored to avoid any additional flare-ups.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh