Massive Clashes Erupt on bhangore Basanti Highway Amid ISF Protest Against Wakf ACT
In a dramatic turn of events on the Basanti Highway near Bhangar, a peaceful protest organized by Indian Secular Front (ISF) supporters against the controversial Wakf Bill spiraled into chaos following police intervention. The situation escalated when police allegedly resorted to baton charges, leading to widespread disruptions and an extended blockade of the national highway.
The Sequence of Events
The ISF supporters were en route to Kolkata to voice their dissent against the Wakf Bill, which they claim undermines the rights and autonomy of the community. According to eyewitness accounts, several vehicles carrying the protesters were halted abruptly by law enforcement near the Basanti Highway. This unexpected obstruction led to heated arguments between the police and the demonstrators.
As tensions mounted, the police reportedly used force to disperse the growing crowd, initiating a baton charge that left several protesters injured. The protestors, in turn, blocked the national highway, causing severe traffic congestion that lasted for hours.
Accusations Fly
ISF leader and MLA Naushad Siddiqui condemned the police action, accusing the authorities of deliberately targeting peaceful protesters. “This is an attempt to suppress dissent. Our supporters were merely exercising their democratic right to protest against an unjust law. The police’s brutal action is unacceptable,” Siddiqui stated. He also alleged that the police used disproportionate force, leading to injuries among several ISF members.
The ISF’s allegations were backed by video footage circulating on social media, showing police personnel wielding batons amidst chaos. Some clips purportedly depict injured protesters lying on the road while others frantically attempt to flee.
Police Response
The local police department, however, defended their actions, stating that the protest had turned unruly and posed a threat to public safety. “We were compelled to take action to prevent further escalation and ensure the safety of commuters on the highway,” a senior police official commented. The police also claimed that the protesters had not obtained proper permissions for their rally, further complicating the situation.
Impact on Commuters
The protest and subsequent blockade caused massive traffic snarls along the Basanti Highway and adjoining roads. Commuters were stranded for hours, with vehicles lined up for several kilometers. Many travelers expressed frustration over the disruption, citing a lack of prior notice about the protest.
“I was stuck in traffic for more than four hours,” said Soumen Chatterjee, a daily commuter. “Both the protesters and the authorities should have handled this situation better. Common people like us are the ones who suffer in such circumstances.”
Political Reactions
The incident has sparked a political uproar, with opposition parties accusing the ruling government of stifling dissent. Leaders from various parties have called for an independent inquiry into the alleged police excesses.
“The government must answer why peaceful protesters were met with such violence. This is a direct attack on democratic values,” said a senior leader from the opposition bench.The ruling party, on the other hand, maintained that law and order needed to be upheld and accused the ISF of inciting unrest for political mileage.
Wider Implications
The clash on the Basanti Highway underscores the growing tension surrounding the Wakf Bill and the broader debate over minority rights. Observers note that the incident could exacerbate the already strained relationship between the government and the ISF, potentially leading to further protests and confrontations in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, human rights organizations have called for an impartial investigation into the use of force by the police, emphasizing the need for accountability and restraint in handling protests.
As the dust settles on the Basanti Highway, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges of balancing law enforcement with the right to peaceful protest. While the immediate priority lies in addressing the injuries and disruptions caused, the broader issues of governance, accountability, and democratic freedoms remain critical areas for reflection and action.
