A protest against a recent government demolition drive in Kolkata’s Tiljala area turned violent on Sunday afternoon near the Park Circus Seven-Point Crossing, close to Park Street. A large crowd gathered to voice their grievances over the use of bulldozers, which led to an attempt to block major roadways.
When security forces intervened to disperse what they termed an “unlawful assembly,” a section of the demonstrators allegedly resorted to stone-pelting, resulting in injuries to at least three police personnel and significant damage to several roadside vehicles, including those belonging to central forces. In the latest developments, the Kolkata Police and central forces have restored order by conducting route marches, deploying the Rapid Action Force (RAF), and arresting 21 individuals in connection with the unrest.
Clashes Erupt And Security Personnel Hurt
The situation rapidly escalated into chaos as bricks and stones were hurled at the law enforcement officials tasked with clearing the streets. The violence left three police officers injured, while several vehicles parked along the roadside were vandalised during the melee. Addressing the incident, Kolkata Police Additional Assistant Commissioner Ashesh Biswas stated, “Some people tried to block the road.
It was an illegal gathering. The police were trying to disperse them, and there was some stone pelting at them. Three of our colleagues were injured.” He further emphasised that strict legal action would be initiated against the perpetrators, asserting, “We have already arrested a few people.
We will see who is behind it and arrest everyone. Strict legal action will be taken.” Conversely, a section of the protesters alleged that the demonstration began peacefully, claiming that the situation deteriorated only after the police resorted to a lathi-charge to break up the gathering.
The Genesis Of The Demolition Drive
The underlying tension stems from a state government anti-encroachment campaign launched earlier in the week in the nearby Tiljala area. Authorities deployed bulldozers to demolish structures deemed illegal following a tragic factory fire that had claimed two lives just days prior.
Local grievances were reportedly compounded by perceived administrative restrictions concerning community spaces and public road usage. The unrest at the Seven-Point Crossing disrupted traffic for nearly an hour before security forces reclaimed control of the area.
Following the clashes, a heavy deployment of police personnel and central forces carried out flag marches in the neighbouring localities to deter further escalation and reassure residents.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
At The Logical Indian, we believe that development and administrative accountability must never come at the cost of community trust, nor should public grievances ever manifest as violence. While the state has a responsibility to ensure safety regulations and address illegal constructions, the sudden and aggressive deployment of “bulldozer governance” often leaves marginalised communities feeling vulnerable and unheard.
Simultaneously, resorting to stone-pelting and attacking public servants on duty undermines the sanctity of democratic dissent and dilutes genuine grievances. True resolution can only be achieved through constructive dialogue, empathy, and a mutual commitment to peace and coexistence.
Also Read: Bengaluru: 4 Foreign National Women Escape FRRO-Supervised Shelter, Police Launch Investigation
pic.twitter.com/mdFhkMnRvw Muslims did heavy stone pelting on police in Park Circus. Central forces lathi-charged them.
— Ankit Trivedi (@MASTERJI108) May 18, 2026
First in my bloodline to see Muslims in Bengal getting the belt treatment they deserved since 1947🔥
