Three More Held in Kolkata NEET Protest Violence Case, Arrest Count Rises to 14

Kolkata: Kolkata Police have arrested three more people in connection with the violence that erupted during a protest rally over the alleged NEET paper leak and other examination irregularities on July 24, taking the total number of arrests to 14.

The latest arrests were made between Saturday night and Sunday. Earlier, 11 accused had been identified and arrested based on CCTV footage and video evidence from the protest.

The newly arrested individuals have been identified as Shahbaz Khan of Karaya, Sheikh Muhammad Salman Hossain of Rajabagan in Garden Reach, and Muhammad Zahiruddin of Bhangar.

According to police, around 70 people have been identified for their alleged involvement in the violence during the rally, which was jointly organised by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and the students' and youth wings of various Left parties. So far, seven FIRs have been registered, including one filed suo motu by Kolkata Police.

Police sources said none of the 14 arrested so far are students or have any direct connection with the NEET examination. Investigators allege that the accused were involved in instigating violence and attacking police personnel during the demonstration.

Addressing the West Bengal Assembly on Saturday, the state's Chief Minister alleged that anti-social elements from areas such as Rajabazar, Kidderpore, Park Circus, Garden Reach and Ekbalpur were behind the attacks on police personnel and journalists. The Chief Minister claimed the intention was to provoke the police into using force and escalate the situation.

The Chief Minister also said that those found guilty would face action under the newly enacted West Bengal Public Safety & Control of Anti-Social Activities Act, 2026, which provides for stricter action against individuals involved in violent and anti-social activities.

"They wanted the police to resort to baton-charge and fire tear gas shells to further inflame the situation. Fortunately, the police did not fall into that trap, even as the attacks continued," the Chief Minister said.

With inputs from IANS