Kumar Bahukhandi
Thousands of protesters participate in a NEET paper leak protest march in Kolkata on Friday July 24, 2026 , where an incident involving the burning of a photograph of Prime Minister Narendra Modi led to the arrest of one participant-Photo Credit-PTI.
Accused Allegedly Set Fire to PM Modi’s Photograph and Lit a Cigarette from the Flames; Police Launch Investigation
A man has been arrested in West Bengal for allegedly setting fire to a photograph of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and lighting a cigarette from the flames during a protest over the alleged NEET question paper leak in Kolkata.
According to police, the accused, identified as Soumik Chattopadhyay, is a resident of Badu in the Barasat police station area of North 24 Parganas district.
The incident reportedly occurred on Friday July 24, 2026 , ahead of a protest march from Sealdah to Esplanade, organised by several Left-affiliated student organisations demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged NEET paper leak controversy.
A photograph purportedly showing the accused burning the Prime Minister’s picture and lighting a cigarette from the flames later went viral on social media, drawing widespread attention and criticism.
Following a written complaint filed by BJP workers at Barasat Police Station on Saturday morning July 25, 2026 , police launched an investigation and arrested the accused within hours.
A senior police officer confirmed the arrest, stating:
“The accused was taken into custody on the basis of a specific complaint and preliminary evidence collected during the investigation. We are examining all available material, including digital evidence, to ascertain the sequence of events. The investigation is continuing and appropriate legal action is being taken.”
Police said digital evidence, including photographs and videos circulating online, is being examined as part of the investigation. The exact sequence of events and the legal provisions applicable in the case will be determined after completion of the inquiry.
The incident has triggered political reactions, with leaders from different parties condemning the act while reiterating the importance of peaceful and lawful democratic protest.
