The Kolkata police today expressed its regret for brutal assault on journalists covering the Left parties' protest march to the state secretariat against the West Bengal government policies.
Several journalists and lens men, belonging to both the local and national media, were beaten up twice by police officials near Mayo road in front of the Kolkata Press Club.
They were kicked and poked with batons. Even women journalists were not spared and were abused by the police personnel on duty.
"We have received complaints and reports of a few journalists being beaten up and abused. We are extremely sorry for the incident and express our regret. The incident was undesirable. Those who have suffered injury, we wish them a speedy recovery," said Joint Police Commissioner (HQ) Supratim Sarkar.
Sarkar said that the force was ordered to "maintain restraint" while dealing with the media persons and promised to investigate the assault.
"If the complaints are proved correct, departmental actions will be taken against the police personnel involved in then assault," Sarkar said.
The Press Club, Kolkata has also condemned the brutal assault of scribes.
In a letter, the Press Club has demanded an inquiry by the state administration, terming the attack as 'unwarranted' and 'unfortunate.
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