Jaya Ahsan joins Kolkata street protest for women's safety, draws mixed reactions

Bangladeshi actress Jaya Ahsan, who has established a strong presence in Indian cinema, has sparked debate after joining a rally in Kolkata demanding women's safety.

The rally was organised on the eve of India's Independence Day following a call by West Bengal minister Agnimitra Paul, with politicians, women MPs, film and music personalities and ordinary citizens participating.

Jaya Ahsan was seen chanting slogans and singing alongside others, including actresses Rituparna Sengupta, Chaity Ghoshal, singers Eamon Chakraborty and Paushali. The group was seen singing the iconic Bengali song "Karar Oi Louha Kopat".

After videos and photos surfaced on social media, many questioned why a Bangladeshi citizen had participated in such a programme in Kolkata. Others, however, praised her for raising her voice alongside other celebrities for women's safety.

Organisers said the programme was held to demand safer streets for women at night in Kolkata, with people from various professions beyond political identities taking part.