Senior Citizen Moves Calcutta High Court Over Unclear 'Nabanna Chalo' Protest Call

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, January 14, 2025 – A fresh call for the 'Nabanna Chalo' protest next Thursday has stirred significant controversy and confusion, with concerns over its origin and legality. The call for the protest, which is set to begin at Wellington Square before heading towards Nabanna, has sparked public interest, but crucial details remain unclear. A viral social media post has circulated, featuring a poster for the 'Nabanna Chalo' program, but it lacks any specific mention of the political party or individual behind the call for action.

The slogan for the protest is notably similar to one used in last year’s widespread demonstrations following the tragic murder and rape of Tilottama, when citizens of the state took to the streets demanding justice. In a parallel fashion, the current protest seems to be calling for "occupying the night," although the identity of those behind it remains unknown. This ambiguity has raised suspicions, particularly since no formal permission for the event has been granted by the police.

In response to the uncertainty surrounding the protest, Bharatkumar Mishra, a 65-year-old senior citizen, has filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Calcutta High Court. According to the petition, the program’s organizers have not disclosed their identities, nor have they sought the necessary permissions from the authorities, thus potentially violating the law. The petition also highlights concerns regarding the law and order implications of an unapproved public gathering.

Sources reveal that the protest is scheduled to begin at 1 PM on January 16, with the procession set to move from Wellington Square towards Nabanna. The slogan for the protest, “After occupying the night, today we will occupy the demand,” adds to the sense of urgency surrounding the event. As of now, the identity of the organizers remains a mystery, and the legal proceedings are expected to shed more light on this issue.

The Calcutta High Court is likely to hear the PIL shortly, and the case could have significant implications for how such protests are organized in the future, particularly when the details of the organizers and their intentions remain unclear.