Hate Graffiti at Kolkata’s IIEST Sparks Alarm After Delhi Blast
In a disturbing escalation following the low-intensity blast near the Israeli Embassy in Delhi, hate graffiti targeting a minority community was discovered at Kolkata’s Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology (IIEST). The incident, occurring barely 24 hours after the Delhi explosion, has raised concerns about communal tensions and potential copycat hate crimes.
Hate Messages Found on Campus Walls
Early Wednesday morning, students and faculty at IIEST Shibpur were stunned to find walls and classroom doors defaced with inflammatory slogans, including phrases like “Traitors Not Welcome” and “Revenge for Delhi.” Authorities quickly removed the graffiti, but students from the targeted community expressed fear over the intimidation.
Kolkata Police have filed a case under IPC sections for promoting enmity and vandalism. “We are reviewing CCTV footage and questioning suspects,” said a senior officer. No arrests have been made yet.
Possible Link to Delhi Blast?
The timing—just a day after the Delhi blast—has fueled speculation about a connection. While Delhi Police suspect a “foreign-based terror module” behind the explosion, security agencies are probing whether the Kolkata graffiti was an isolated act or part of a coordinated effort to incite unrest.
Political and Public Outrage
Political leaders and civil groups have condemned the incident. Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee tweeted: “Hatred has no place in Bengal. We will not allow divisive forces to disrupt peace.” Meanwhile, IIEST student groups plan protests, demanding stricter action against hate crimes.
Rising Communal Incidents in Educational Spaces
This incident follows similar hate messages at IIT Madras and JNU last year, raising concerns about safety and polarization on campuses. Sociologist Dr. Anjali Rao warns: “Targeting students normalizes bigotry—campuses must remain spaces for dialogue, not hate.”
Calls for Stronger Measures
Civil rights groups urge governments to take decisive action. Activist Farhan Akhtar (PUCL) emphasizes: “Legal steps aren’t enough—leaders must condemn such acts unequivocally.” IIEST has promised tighter security and counseling for affected students.
Conclusion: A Challenge to India’s Unity
The IIEST graffiti is a test of India’s commitment to secularism. As investigations proceed, the nation watches whether justice will prevail or if such incidents will escalate.
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