West Bengal witnessed widespread unrest as state government employees observed a massive strike, demanding the release of pending Dearness Allowance (DA). Beyond DA, protestors are demanding immediate recruitment for 6 lakh vacant posts and the regularization of temporary staff. The protests led to intense scuffles between demonstrators and the police across Kolkata and various districts.

Direct Attack on CM Mamata: Chandan Chatterjee, a leader of the ‘Sangrami Joutha Mancha’ (Joint Struggle Forum), launched a scathing attack on CM Mamata Banerjee. He stated, “Mamata Banerjee once said a government that cannot pay DA has no right to remain in power. We will ensure this government is ousted in 2026.” He alleged that attempts by ruling party-backed elements to intimidate employees were met with strong resistance.

Confronting the Police: The protestors also targeted the police, alleging systemic corruption and criticizing their role in suppressing the movement. Chatterjee issued a stern warning, stating that if the police continue to target the employees, the forum will hold them accountable for their actions.

From Malda and South 24 Parganas to Hooghly and North 24 Parganas, the strike paralyzed several administrative offices. Reports of physical altercations between the Joint Forum and ruling-party-affiliated employee unions have emerged. While the state administration has attempted to keep government offices functional, the intensifying agitation and the ‘threat’ to disrupt future voting duties have heightened the political pressure on the West Bengal government.