Mamata to Lead Kolkata Protest Today Over Alleged Attacks on TMC Leaders

The protest is scheduled to be held at Rani Rashmoni Road and comes in the backdrop of alleged attacks on TMC leaders Abhishek Banerjee and Kalyan Banerjee.

Reacting sharply to the proposed protest, BJP leader Rahul Sinha questioned its intent and legality, stating that permission for demonstrations lies with the police.

"If she has the intention to protest, then she can do a protest. It is up to the police to decide whether to give permission for it or not. If one has police permission, anyone can stage a protest; there is no objection to that. But what exactly would she be protesting for?" Sinha told ANI.

He further alleged that the incident involving Abhishek Banerjee was orchestrated to malign the BJP and strengthen demands for enhanced security.

"However, this entire charade has now been exposed. Therefore, no matter how much she protests, the public is not going to be swayed by her rhetoric," he added.

Sinha also launched a fresh attack on the TMC, accusing the party of widespread wrongdoing and claiming it would eventually be politically isolated.

Earlier on Monday, Mamata Banerjee expressed shock and anger over the alleged targeted violence against party MPs and condemned what she described as "absurd and authoritarian conduct."

In a video statement, the TMC chief criticised the handling of the situation after party leaders reportedly faced targeted mobs over the weekend.

"The way you assaulted the MP of the second-largest opposition party is shocking. Doctors were called, yet hospitals were allegedly instructed not to provide treatment. What kind of absurd and authoritarian conduct is this?" she said.

Banerjee further alleged attempts to weaken her party through intimidation and administrative pressure.

"TMC will become even stronger. You cannot weaken the party by intimidating or bribing a few MLAs and MPs; in fact, this is only making the party stronger," she said.

She also warned that if the party was prevented from protesting in Kolkata, it would take its agitation to New Delhi.

"Arrest me if you want. The TMC will hold its protest on June 2 even without police permission, microphones or a stage. If we are not allowed to protest in Kolkata, we will protest in Delhi," Banerjee said.

Her remarks came after TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee alleged that he was attacked with bricks, stones and eggs during a visit to families affected by post-poll violence in South 24 Parganas. He sustained an eye injury and claimed it was a "BJP-sponsored" attack.

In a separate incident, party MP Kalyan Banerjee alleged that he was attacked near Chanditala Police Station while submitting a deputation, describing it as an "attempt to murder."

Meanwhile, police have arrested five people in connection with the alleged attack on Abhishek Banerjee, and investigations are underway.