Bandh call shuts down Siliguri

PRASHANT ACHARYA

SILIGURI,: Normal life came to a standstill in Siliguri on Monday following a strike called by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), in response to recent communal tensions triggered by the alleged illegal transportation of beef from Naxalbari to Matigara.

Tensions simmered across the city from early morning, leading to sporadic clashes and heated confrontations between police and protesters. The first significant flare-up was reported at Jhankar More, where VHP supporters and police forces clashed during an attempt to enforce the shutdown.

In Bagdogra, Matigara, and other areas of the Siliguri Mahakuma Parishad, groups affiliated with the VHP marched with national flags, urging shopkeepers to close their establishments. Road blockades were also set up at several points, disrupting traffic and paralyzing public transport.

Meanwhile, members of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) staged counter-demonstrations in Matigara, appealing to residents and shop owners to defy the bandh and continue their daily activities.

Police faced considerable challenges in controlling the unrest, especially in areas like Hasmi Chowk, Gurung Busty More, Paribahan Nagar, and Matigara Bazar, where picketers reportedly attempted to halt vehicles while chanting slogans such as “Jai Shri Ram.” Several protesters were arrested for inciting violence, although police have not yet released official figures.

Public transport services were severely affected. State-run buses from the North Bengal State Transport Corporation were deployed in an effort to maintain mobility, but most public and private vehicles stayed off the roads. Only a limited number of light motor vehicles were seen operating in parts of the city.

A heavy police presence was maintained across key intersections and sensitive zones to prevent any further escalation. Authorities remain on high alert as the situation continues to evolve.