Fresh protests erupted outside the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission in Kolkata on Tuesday afternoon, December 23, as a group of far-right Hindu organisations staged demonstrations over allegations of attacks on minorities in Bangladesh, leading to clashes with police, injuries on both sides and heightened security at the diplomatic mission.
The protesters, organised under the banner of the Bangiya Hindu Jagaran Mancha, brought out a procession from Sealdah Railway Station and attempted to march towards the Bangladesh mission.
As the group moved through key city roads, police intercepted them at Beg Bagan and prevented their entry into the restricted diplomatic zone.
Tensions escalated when demonstrators tried to break through police barricades, triggering scuffles between protesters and law enforcement personnel.
In an attempt to bring the situation under control, police carried out a baton charge, following which protesters allegedly hurled brickbats at officers. Several police personnel and demonstrators sustained injuries during the clashes.
Police detained a number of individuals from the scene, though the exact number of arrests was not immediately confirmed. The injured were provided first aid, and traffic movement in the surrounding areas was temporarily disrupted as the situation unfolded.
Following the violence, security around the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission was significantly tightened, with additional police personnel deployed and barricades reinforced to prevent further attempts to approach the mission.
Authorities said the situation was later brought under control, though tension persisted in parts of the area.
The latest protest comes a day after similar demonstrations on Monday, when various Hindu organisations gathered outside the Bangladesh mission in Kolkata. That protest was led by West Bengal Leader of the Opposition and BJP leader Shuvendu Adhikari, who accused the Bangladeshi authorities of failing to ensure the safety of minority communities.
Earlier protests in Delhi and Tripura targeting Bangladeshi diplomatic missions had also raised concerns in Dhaka, prompting diplomatic engagement and appeals for enhanced security of Bangladesh’s missions in India.
Indian authorities have iterated that adequate security arrangements are in place for foreign diplomatic establishments, while urging protest groups to maintain law and order.
The situation is being closely monitored amid growing diplomatic sensitivities surrounding the issue.