Sun Feb 02 22:40:00 UTC 2025: ## West Bengal Education Minister Intervenes in Saraswati Puja Protest at Kolkata Law College

**Kolkata, February 3, 2025** – West Bengal Education Minister Bratya Basu intervened on Sunday in a protest at Jogesh Chandra Law College over the organization of Saraswati Puja. Students alleged they received threats from outsiders, reportedly linked to a local Trinamool Congress Chhatra Parishad (TMCP) leader, Sabir Ahmed, for organizing the Puja on campus. Ahmed denied the allegations, claiming the TMCP was organizing a separate Puja nearby and issued no threats.

The controversy prompted the Calcutta High Court to order Kolkata Police to ensure the Puja’s safe and secure conduct on Friday. Minister Basu visited the college, assuring students of protection and vowing to take strong action against anyone issuing threats. He was accompanied by Kolkata South MP Mala Roy, who urged students to refrain from using the Puja as a platform for political sloganeering.

The incident sparked criticism from the opposition. BJP leader and Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari accused the state government of creating an environment reminiscent of Bangladesh. The situation highlights ongoing tensions surrounding religious celebrations in the state.

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