Kolkata: A day after walking out of Bankshall Court on bail, the 16 people arrested in connection with last Friday’s protest over the alleged NEET paper leak said their legal battle would continue. Though relieved to be home after days in custody, many of the accused said they would continue participating in democratic protests.The 16 were arrested after a protest rally organised by eight Left student and youth organisations along with the city chapter of Cockroach Janta Party. They were granted bail by a city court on Tuesday evening.For Sk Salman Hussain, the first day after his release was marked by visitors and political activity. One of the main organisers of the Park Circus anti-SIR movement, Salman attended a street-corner meeting in Metiaburuz on Wednesday, seeking restoration of the names of genuine voters allegedly deleted during the SIR, and demanding that the tribunal process be expedited.“The truth has won. I can confidently say there is no evidence against me to establish that I heckled and assaulted journalists or took part in any violence during the protest on Friday. Instead, I cleaned up Esplanade by picking up used plastic bottles, cups, and biscuit and cake wrappers. I have faith in our democracy, the Constitution, and the judiciary. The legal battle will continue till the FIRs are withdrawn,” Salman said.He said the experience of being in custody has left him deeply shaken. “I was portrayed as a criminal. I cried in the cell, and prayed to the Almighty to give me strength to fight this uneven battle.”Others who returned home on Tuesday evening described a similar outpouring of support from their communities.“My entire family was in the courtroom when I was released on Tuesday evening. People have been coming to find out how I am since morning. From friends to distant relatives to our political associates, everyone has been very supportive. Our faith in our judicial system has strengthened. I want to spend time with my family. I am thankful to CPM, SFI and the ISF who stood with us in these trying times. I am a dedicated worker, and follow the discipline of a political activist,” said Mohammad Jahiruddin Mal.Yakub Ali Mal, Jahiruddin’s father, said: “I am proud of my son. I am proud that he protested. I have been maintaining from day one that he had done nothing that is a crime. I said that I will not stand with him if it could be proved that he assaulted cops and journalists. I am relieved that I believed in him.” For Mohsin’s family, the relief was accompanied by prayers. “My brother Mohsin offered special prayers after getting released. Our parents were very stressed throughout the weekend. They are relieved now. Friends and relatives have been coming since morning to find out how my brother is,” said Mustaqim Khan, Mohsin’s brother and a resident of Beckbagan.
