Siliguri (West Bengal) [India]: The Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) staged a protest march towards the Uttarkanya Mini Secretariat in Siliguri on Friday evening, raising concerns about corruption in the state and demanding employment opportunities.
However, the situation turned tense as police put up barricades to stop the protesters and resorted to using water cannons, tear gas shells, and lathi charge to disperse them. A flag march was also conducted by the Siliguri Metropolitan Police to maintain order.
Protesters Condemn Police Action
DYFI protester Ratna Choubey alleged that the march was peaceful and criticized the police for using excessive force.
“The youth were taking out a peaceful march. We were present with them. The manner in which the Police resorted to a lathi charge… Male police personnel beat up women protesters. Minakshi (of DYFI) was arrested. There was no violence from our end, it was all peaceful… The youth were protesting against unemployment. Police had information about this, but they were stopped. Corruption is a major issue in West Bengal,” she stated.
She also raised concerns about the tea garden industry, claiming that labourers were not receiving fair wages and that corporates were taking control over the sector.
Authorities Assure Peace
Siliguri Metropolitan Police DCP Rakesh Singh reassured that the situation was under control.
“The situation is completely under control. It is peaceful now. The regular movement of traffic will resume shortly,” he said.
Earlier BJP Protest in Kolkata
This protest follows a recent demonstration by BJP workers in Kolkata on March 22, opposing a new bill introduced by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government that permits women to work in bars.
With protests intensifying in West Bengal over various issues, tensions remain high as political and social groups continue to voice their concerns.