In a dramatic escalation of political tensions in West Bengal, Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday released a list of 50 individuals allegedly affiliated with the student wing of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), accusing them of orchestrating a reign of terror across college campuses in the state.
The list, which Adhikari dubbed the “Gallery of 50 Bhaipo Gang Members,” was made public during a press briefing in Kolkata. The term “Bhaipo Gang” is a pointed reference to TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee, nephew of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Adhikari alleged that the individuals named wield disproportionate influence due to their proximity to the ruling party’s top leadership.
“These individuals are not just student leaders — they are political enforcers who have turned educational institutions into zones of fear and coercion,” Adhikari stated. He further claimed that many of those listed had been appointed to college staff positions without proper qualifications or interviews, undermining academic integrity and transparency.
The announcement follows public outrage over the alleged gangrape of a first-year student at South Calcutta Law College on June 25. The prime accused, Monojit Mishra, is reportedly linked to the TMC’s student wing. Adhikari drew parallels between Mishra and others on the list, asserting that “there are many Monojit Mishras on campuses across the state,” all enjoying political protection.
In addition to the campus-related allegations, Adhikari criticized the state government’s handling of law and order, accusing it of selective
