Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, April 22, 2025, Kolkata : Amidst the ongoing protests by unemployed teachers outside the West Bengal School Service Commission (SSC) building, BJP leader Sajal Ghosh stepped in to provide essential support for the protesters, clarifying that his actions were driven purely by humanitarian concerns, not political motives.
At the heart of the protest, which entered its second consecutive night, protesters refused to budge until the SSC released a list of eligible candidates, whose appointments had been canceled following a Supreme Court ruling. Chairman Siddharth Majumdar, along with several SSC officials, remained trapped inside the building as tensions escalated outside. Protesting teachers, determined and resolute, lay on the ground, refusing to move despite the arrival of police forces, who attempted to disperse the crowd with tear gas and batons. The situation became even more heated, with reports suggesting that gunfire was heard in the area.
While the protest grew intense, Sajal Ghosh made efforts to support the demonstrators. He arranged for water to be delivered to the protest site, offering a gesture of solidarity. “This is not a political gesture, but one driven purely by humanity,” Ghosh said, emphasizing that his actions were not motivated by party interests.
As the night wore on, the teachers raised concerns about the lack of basic facilities, particularly the absence of bio toilets. The protesters, who had been on the streets for hours, complained about the police’s refusal to help set up the necessary facilities. Responding to this, Ghosh assured the teachers that bio toilets would be provided within two hours. “Politics should not be mixed with providing water or basic amenities. This is about people, not politics. I am a politician, but I am also a Bengali,” Ghosh remarked.
He also urged the protesters to consider using the bio toilets, particularly the women, as they were the ones most affected by the lack of facilities. His intervention helped alleviate some of the discomfort faced by the protesters, showing that even in times of political tension, acts of compassion can transcend political divides.
The situation at Karunamoyee remains tense, and the protesters’ determination continues to grow, with many vowing to continue their dharna (sit-in protest) until their demands are met. Their plight, driven by uncertainty about their future employment, is a stark reminder of the frustrations faced by many jobless youth in West Bengal.
Despite the tense atmosphere, the role of figures like Sajal Ghosh underscores the potential for solidarity across political lines, especially when it comes to addressing basic humanitarian needs.