Kolkata: Scuffle breaks out between police and BJP workers during protest over bill permitting women to work in bars

A scuffle broke out between police and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders, including Roopa Ganguly, during a protest in Kolkata against the Trinamool Congress (TMC) -led government over the introduction of a bill permitting women to work in bars.

Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar and BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul also joined BJP workers as they protest against the Trinamool Congress government.

Visuals from the scene showed BJP workers raising slogans and holding placards, condemning the bill and accusing the TMC of inconsistent policies.

"Opposition parties and women's rights activists have criticized the TMC government's decision, emphasizing that without robust safety protocols, allowing women to work in bars could lead to increased vulnerability to harassment and violence. They advocate for comprehensive policies that not only promote employment opportunities for women but also ensure their safety and dignity in the workplace. In light of these concerns, it is imperative for the TMC government to prioritize the implementation of stringent safety measures and create secure working environments for women across all sectors. This approach would reflect a genuine commitment to women's empowerment, beyond mere legislative changes," said Anghamitra Paul in a post on X.

On Wednesday, the West Bengal assembly passed a bill to allow women to work in bars. The West Bengal Finance Bill, 2025, was tabled by MoS Chandrima Bhattacharya in the assembly.

It seeks to amend the Bengal Excise Act, 1909, "to remove the prohibition on employment of woman in ON category liquor shops as such provision is discriminatory", among others.

One of the major changes introduced is the removal of restrictions on the employment of women in ON-category liquor shops. The bill states that this amendment was necessary "to remove the prohibition on employment of women in ON category liquor shops as such provision is discriminatory."

While 'Of' shops are outlets that sell liquor, at 'On' shops, consumption of liquor is allowed on the premises.

Concluding the discussions on the Bill, Bhattacharya said the state government does not believe in discrimination between men and women.