BJP slams Kolkata Police for Section 144 in the city during Modi visit

Kolkata: An order of Kolkata Police commissioner Vineet Goyal imposing prohibitory orders under section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code in some central parts of the city amid Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit next week for his Lok Sabha Election campaign has left the BJP furious.

The order, issued on May 22, stated that it would be effective in the jurisdictions of Hare Street and Bowbazar police stations and Headquarters Traffic Guard of the city police from May 28 to July 26.

Interestingly, Mr Modi is also expected to reach the city on May 28 and lead a roadshow in Kolkata North parliamentary constituency in support of BJP candidate Tapas Roy. His route is however outside the jurisdictions of the prohibitory orders.

State BJP chief Sukanta Majumdar said, “The CM, sensing the will of the masses after 5 phases of election, is now fearful. In a desperate move, she has ordered police to implement Article 144 in Kolkata to stop Modiji's road-show. Let TMC know: No evil tactics can stop the BJP.”

Facing criticism, the Kolkata Police later stated on X-handle that it “issues 144 Cr PC order in vicinity of Dalhousie and Victoria house on regular basis. This is nothing new and such orders are renewed every two months. Copies of previous orders attached. So please refrain from spreading misleading information.”