Kolkata:
The Mamata Banerjee-led government in West Bengal has been accused of targeting former police officer Nazrul Islam's book, which reportedly is critical of the state government. Mr Islam's book - 'What Muslims Should Do' - reportedly criticises the West Bengal government for failing to improve the condition of Muslims in the state.
Though the book has not been banned, a police team reportedly searched the offices of its publishers, Mitra and Ghosh, in North Kolkata's College Street on Saturday. The cops also allegedly closed the counter where the book was being sold.
The incident has led to another outrage in the state with many slamming the government for its censorship policies. Author Sunil Ganguly told NDTV, "You are in power. If I criticise you, is that a crime?"
Ms Banerjee's government has been severely criticised for its alleged highhandedness in the past. A professor in Kolkata's Jadavpur University, Ambikesh Mahapatra, was arrested in April for circulating a cartoon lampooning the chief minister. He was also allegedly beaten up by workers from Ms Banerjee's party, Trinamool Congress.
Last month, a man named Shiladitya was arrested after he asked the Chief Minister a question at a public rally at Belpahari. Ms Banejee had reacted angrily to the question; pointing to him, she claimed he was a Maoist and ordered the police to arrest him.