Mamata Banerjee Criticizes Delhi Police for Arresting Activist Abhijit Dipke
Mamata Banerjee condemns the arrest of activist Abhijit Dipke by Delhi Police, calling it an attack on democratic rights.
Kolkata, October 16 (Daily Kiran) : Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed strong disapproval of the Delhi Police‘s detention of activist Abhijit Dipke on Friday. Dipke, the founder of the Cockroach People’s Party (CJP), was taken into custody for raising the Indian national flag during a peaceful protest.
In a post on social media platform X, Banerjee questioned the actions of the Delhi Police, stating, “What is this behavior? Abhijit Dipke has been arrested for merely exercising his democratic rights in independent India.” She characterized the situation as a form of undeclared emergency, accusing the government of instilling fear in the youth and attempting to silence dissent.
Banerjee argued that the current regime resembles a fascist government that cannot tolerate voices it cannot control. She declared her support for Dipke and other youth leaders, asserting, “You represent the courage, conscience, and aspirations of India’s youth. You cannot silence an entire generation.”
She emphasized that no threats or misuse of power could crush the spirit of democracy. “Awaken, India! The struggle for democracy, freedom, and the right to dissent will continue,” she stated.
Earlier on Friday, Delhi Police had placed Dipke in preventive custody ahead of a planned protest at Connaught Place’s Central Park, titled “Lahra Do Tiranga.” The police had issued a notice to Dipke, citing that the protest lacked the necessary legal permissions and could disrupt public order and safety.
The police highlighted that Connaught Place is a major commercial area, and gatherings without permission could negatively impact local businesses and livelihoods.
Banerjee’s comments come amid ongoing tensions surrounding the right to protest and the treatment of activists in India.
