Archive · 30 Jul 2026
Bookstall Near Jadavpur University Threatened With Fire
A small book stall near Jadavpur University in Kolkata was threatened by a group of men who said the books were "anti‑national" and that they would burn the stall.
The stall is run by a publisher called Counter Era, which sells books on many topics like the National Register of Citizens and famous Indian leaders.
The publisher’s staff said the men shouted at them for about 15 minutes.
Jadavpur University’s own press said the threat was an attack on free speech and promised support.
A BJP spokesperson said the party didn’t know about the incident and told the publisher to file a police complaint.
Six to seven men threatened to set fire to Counter Era’s bookstall on July 22, calling the books "anti‑national".
Publisher Alok Halder reported the men shouted at the stall and threatened violence for about 15 minutes.
Counter Era sells works on SIR, NRC, Ambedkar, Tagore, and Swami Vivekananda, and is frequented by Jadavpur University students and faculty.
Jadavpur University Press condemned the alleged intimidation, calling it an assault on freedom of expression.
BJP spokesperson Debjit Sarkar denied knowledge of the incident and urged the publisher to file a police complaint.
- Who
- Alok Halder, Bonhihotri Hazra, Jadavpur University Press, BJP spokesperson Debjit Sarkar
- What
- Alleged threat to set fire to Counter Era bookstall and intimidation of staff
- When
- July 22, 2023
- Where
- Footpath opposite Jadavpur University Gate No. 4, Kolkata
- Why
- Perpetrators claimed displayed books were "anti‑national" and threatened violence
- Publisher
- Counter Era
- Location
- Opposite Jadavpur University Gate No. 4, Kolkata
- Incident Date
- July 22, 2023
- Threatened Items
- Books on SIR, NRC, Ambedkar, Tagore, Swami Vivekananda
- Response
- Jadavpur University Press condemnation, BJP spokesperson statement