BJP's West Bengal bandh: Normal life hit as protests, train blockades, and scuffles reported across the state
Times of India | 28 August 2024
NEW DELHI: Daily life in parts of West Bengal was affected on Wednesday due to a 12-hour bandh called by the BJP to protest against police action during a march to the state secretariat.
In Kolkata, the usual weekday busyness was missing with fewer buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis on the roads. Private vehicles were also significantly less, though markets and shops remained open.
Schools and colleges were open, but attendance in most private offices were less, with employees working from home.
In Bhabanipur, BJP MLA Agnimitra Pal urged people with folded hands not to take out their vehicles.
Tensions rose at various locations as BJP workers demonstrated protest in places like Bongaon station in North 24 Parganas, Gocharan station in South 24 Parganas, and the Murshidabad station, showing support for the bandh.
Conflict appeared at Barrackpore station in North 24 Parganas as BJP supporters and TMC workers confronted each other.
BJP workers also blocked a local train at Hooghly station and picketed on the road in Nandigram, disrupting traffic. In Malda, a brawl broke out between TMC and BJP activists over road blockages, requiring police intervention to disperse the groups.
Demonstrations were also reported at the Bankura town bus stand. In Alipurduar, a scuffle ensued between BJP activists and police as the protesters attempted to block an arterial road while shouting slogans.
"Dafa ek dabi ek, mukhyomantrir padatyag" (single demand, the chief minister must resign).
The 'Bangla Bandh,' starting at 6 am, was a response to police action during the 'Nabanna Abhijan' on Tuesday.
The march, demanding the resignation of CM Mamata Banerjee, followed the rape and murder of a doctor at RG Kar hospital. It was organized by the newly formed students' group, Chatra Samaj.