Bengal invokes Goonda Act for first time over NEET protest violence
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
West Bengal invoked its newly enacted 'Goonda Act' for the first time against those accused of violence during a NEET protest on July 25, 2026. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced the action, condemning attacks on journalists and stating that the law would be used to deter future generations of 'goons'.
Background
The West Bengal Public Safety and Control of Anti-social Activities Act, 2026, was passed by the state assembly after a stormy debate and criticized by the opposition as draconian. Governor RN Ravi approved the legislation earlier in the week. The Act aims to control anti-social activities and enhance public safety.
Key facts
The West Bengal government invoked the 'Goonda Act' (West Bengal Public Safety and Control of Anti-social Activities Act, 2026) for the first time on July 25, 2026.
The Act was invoked against those accused of orchestrating violence during a NEET protest rally in Kolkata on July 24, 2026.
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari stated that around 70 individuals identified from the rally were 'not students' and had no connection with the NEET paper leak agitation.
Seven FIRs were registered: six at Hare Street police station and one at Entally police station, incorporating provisions of the new law.
Adhikari alleged that the protest was organized under the banner of 'United Cockroach March' by a self-proclaimed CJP member, with participation from Left and ultra-Left student organizations (SFI, DSO, DYSA, AISF).
The police were instructed to exercise maximum restraint and did not act until the situation went out of control, according to the Chief Minister.
The Act was passed recently by the West Bengal Assembly and approved by Governor RN Ravi earlier that week.
Prelims pointers
- West Bengal Public Safety and Control of Anti-social Activities Act, 2026
- Goonda Act
- NEET protest violence
- Kolkata
- July 2026
- Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari
- Governor RN Ravi
- FIRs at Hare Street and Entally police stations
- SFI, DSO, DYSA, AISF
Mains angles
- Discuss the balance between public safety and civil liberties in the context of anti-social activities legislation.
- Critically examine the role of state governments in maintaining law and order during student protests.
- Analyze the implications of invoking special laws like the Goonda Act on freedom of speech and peaceful assembly.