Kolkata, 08 July (H.S.): A political rally organised by the student and youth wings of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in protest against the alleged rape and murder of a minor girl in Baruipur turned chaotic in south Kolkata on Wednesday, with clashes breaking out along the procession route. Amid the unrest, several videos went viral on social media showing former West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee apparently slapping a party worker. The party, however, claimed the incident occurred unintentionally during the confusion and was being misrepresented.

The march, which was held with the permission of the Calcutta High Court, began from Ballygunge Phari and proceeded towards Hazra. According to the TMC, the rally was disrupted after BJP supporters allegedly entered the approved route and raised slogans against the procession. The exchange of slogans soon escalated into scuffles and physical clashes between the two sides.

As the situation deteriorated, videos surfaced on social media showing Banerjee apparently slapping a man, who is reportedly a TMC worker. In other viral clips, she was also seen patting or slapping several workers on their backs while asking people to move aside.

TMC leaders and workers present at the rally claimed that several participants fell ill amid the commotion and stampede-like situation. They said arrangements were being made to shift the injured and unwell workers to hospitals when Banerjee reached the spot. According to the party, she was directing people to clear the way for vehicles carrying the injured, and in the ensuing chaos, one worker was accidentally slapped.

Following the incident, Banerjee accused the police and the administration of failing to maintain law and order despite the High Court's permission for the rally. She alleged that anti-social elements and BJP supporters were allowed to disrupt the peaceful procession.

The High Court's order was violated. When I reached the spot after hearing about the violence, I saw my workers bleeding. Many women had injuries on their heads and faces. Outsiders manhandled women workers in a shameful manner. I came out of my house to rescue my workers, Banerjee said.

She further alleged that despite the presence of the police and central forces, no effective steps were taken to control the violence or ensure the safety of TMC supporters.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh