West Bengal bookstalls face political confrontation during Durga Puja

During the Durga Puja festival in West Bengal, political tensions have escalated following reported attacks, vandalism, and threats against bookstalls operated by Left parties, including the Communist Party of India (Marxist), the Communist Party of India, and the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) Liberation.

A significant confrontation occurred in Jadavpur when a team from the Kolkata Municipal Corporation, supported by police and central forces, attempted to demolish a CPM bookstall. While the party claims to have held the necessary permissions, the operation led to an overnight standoff with local supporters, eventually forcing the demolition team to retreat.

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has approached the Calcutta High Court regarding the matter. The court has agreed to hear a petition on October 20, providing temporary relief to the stall. These incidents have sparked broader debates regarding public safety, the right to dissent, and the use of administrative power during cultural celebrations.