WB Education Minister Attacked at Jadavpur University Amid Student Protests

Kolkata- West Bengal Education Minister Bratya Basu was attacked on Saturday at Jadavpur University (JU) by members of the CPI(M) student wing, SFI, and Naxalite-affiliated AISA, demanding student union elections in the state. The protesters gheraoed the minister, damaged his vehicle, and smashed its windshield and rearview mirror.

Basu, who was at JU for the West Bengal College and University Professors Association (WBCUPA) annual meeting, attempted to engage with the protesters but was surrounded by over 100 students. Security personnel struggled to escort him to his car. The minister later visited SSKM Hospital, where he was treated for minor injuries and chest pain.

“I was willing to talk, but they wanted chaos, not dialogue,” Basu said after his medical check-up. He accused ultra-left groups of orchestrating violence on campus.

While SFI leader Kaushiki Bhattacharya denied the allegations and blamed TMC sympathizers for instigating violence, TMC’s state general secretary Kunal Ghosh condemned the attack, warning that patience should not be mistaken for weakness.

Following the incident, student protesters blocked S C Mallick Road and vandalized campus facilities. Police intervened to restore order.