Protest against demolition drive turns violent in Kolkata, 3 cops injured

A protest against a demolition drive in Kolkata's Park Street turned violent after agitators pelted stones at the police, injuring three personnel and damaging several vehicles, said officials on Sunday. The protestors were agitating against a bulldozer action that was launched by the West Bengal government against alleged illegal constructions in the Tiljala area following a fire at a factory that claimed two lives earlier this week. According to the police, the protesters blocked a road against the cops. The police described it as an "unlawful assembly" and tried to disperse them. However, this led to a clash, with the protesters pelting stones at the police, triggering chaos in the area. They also allegedly damaged several vehicles parked alongside the road.

#WATCH | Kolkata Police detain people after an incident of stone pelting occured following a clash between the Police and protestors at Park Street. Heavy security deployed in the area. pic.twitter.com/7yYjZehH4S

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2026

The situation was quickly brought under control and central forces were deployed in affected areas. The police also conducted a flag march, urging people to maintain law and order. Several of the protesters have also been arrested by the police and efforts are being made to identify others. Heavy deployment of Kolkata Police and central forces was made in the area after the clashes. Route marches and intensified patrolling were undertaken in adjoining localities to prevent further escalation and restore normalcy.  Kolkata Police Additional Commissioner Ashesh Biswas said action has already been initiated against those involved in the violence.