Saffron-clad men gherao Anandabazar Patrika office in Kolkata, paint walls saffron

According to reports from Alt News, a group of individuals dressed in saffron attire gathered outside the Anandabazar Patrika (ABP) office in Kolkata on September 1. The demonstrators were observed painting the walls of the media outlet's premises with saffron-colored paint. This incident follows public statements made by West Bengal political leader Suvendu Adhikari, who had recently demanded an apology from the publication.

The tension stems from the newspaper's coverage of recent violence at Jadavpur University, which the daily described as 'gerua gundami,' or 'saffron hooliganism.' The term, which links the color saffron to the alleged perpetrators of the unrest, drew significant criticism from political figures who viewed the characterization as an attack on their ideological identity. Videos circulating on social media appear to show the demonstrators actively defacing the office walls in response to the reportage.

Local authorities have not yet issued a formal statement regarding the incident or potential property damage. The event highlights the ongoing friction between media organizations and political groups in West Bengal regarding the framing of campus unrest and political violence. As of now, the situation remains a point of contention, with observers monitoring for further reactions from both the publication and the political groups involved.