Protest over Dipu Das’s Murder Escalates in Kolkata; Police Lathi-Charge Demonstrators Outside Bangladesh Deputy High Commission.

Nikhil Saha | HENB | Kolkata |December 23, 2025:: Outrage spilled onto the streets of Kolkata on Tuesday as protests over the brutal killing of Dipu Das, a Hindu youth in Bangladesh, intensified, culminating in clashes between demonstrators and police near the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission in the Beckbagan area. The situation turned volatile after police resorted to a lathi-charge to disperse protesters who attempted to march towards the high-security diplomatic premises, leading to injuries, detentions, and widespread traffic disruption.

The protest, driven by anger over alleged violence against minorities in Bangladesh, saw hundreds of demonstrators demanding justice for Dipu Das, protection for minority communities, and strong diplomatic intervention by the Indian government. Protesters said the killing in Mymensingh had triggered deep concern and resentment across the border, with activists warning of escalating attacks on minorities if urgent action is not taken.

Tensions peaked around 2 p.m. when protesters attempted to breach police barricades en route to the Deputy High Commission. Security personnel stopped the march citing security concerns, following which heated arguments escalated into scuffles. Police subsequently carried out a baton charge to clear the area, leaving several protesters injured. Witnesses claimed that sadhus (monks) were also among those hurt in the police action.

The protest march was organised under the banner of Bangiyo Hindu Jagoran and backed by several Sangh Parivar-affiliated organisations, including the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), the ABVP, and the Hindu Jagran Manch. Similar demonstrations were reported from various parts of West Bengal and other regions of India, reflecting the growing national resonance of the issue.

“The procession reached Beckbagan, but the protesters were stopped before they could reach the gates of the Deputy High Commission, which is a high-security zone,” said an on-duty police official, adding that gatherings near the premises were unlawful. Protesters, however, maintained that they were attempting to submit a memorandum peacefully to convey their demands.

Following repeated clashes, police detained multiple protesters and transported them in prison vans. Dramatic scenes unfolded as some demonstrators climbed onto the roofs of the vehicles in open defiance. The arrival of BJP leaders at the site further heightened political tension. Tamoghna Ghosh, BJP’s North Kolkata district president, condemned the police action and said the party stood firmly with the protesting Hindutva organisations.

The Beckbagan–Ballygunge stretch remained tense for nearly an hour, with police making repeated announcements urging dispersal. Protesters refused to withdraw, insisting on continuing their sit-in until authorities allowed them to submit the memorandum.

The agitation caused massive traffic congestion in Park Circus and surrounding areas. While traffic from Park Circus towards the Deputy High Commission moved intermittently, the route from the Commission towards the Park Circus crossing remained closed for an extended period, inconveniencing commuters.

The incident has once again brought the issue of minority safety in Bangladesh into sharp focus, while also raising questions about crowd control, freedom of protest, and the handling of politically sensitive demonstrations in high-security zones.
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_Agency inputs including R. বাংলা, NDTV & News Nine.