What Happened in Siliguri After VHP's Protest Call?
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Synopsis
On June 2, Siliguri witnessed a major disruption as a 24-hour strike led by VHP and Bangiya Hindu Mahamancha unfolded, following violent confrontations over illegal beef smuggling. With seven arrests made, local sentiment swells against the alleged complicity of police in the smuggling racket. The community's response showcases their outrage and solidarity amidst escalating tensions.
Key Takeaways
- Siliguri faced a significant disruption due to a 24-hour strike.
- The strike was organized by VHP and Bangiya Hindu Mahamancha.
- Protestors alleged illegal beef smuggling by local miscreants.
- Seven individuals were arrested during the protests.
- Local sentiment showed widespread support for the strike among residents.
Kolkata, June 2 (NationPress) Daily activities in Siliguri, located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, faced significant disruption on Monday due to a 24-hour strike organized by the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bangiya Hindu Mahamancha.
The strike was initiated after an incident on May 29, where their activists were reportedly attacked while attempting to halt the suspected transportation and smuggling of illegal beef in the region.
As of the latest updates, seven supporters of the strike were taken into custody by the Siliguri Metropolitan Police. They were apprehended at Jalpai Crossing in Siliguri Town, where they were demonstrating with flags representing their organizations.
Another faction of the protestors obstructed roads at Hasmi Chawk in Siliguri Town, leading to traffic delays. Police promptly intervened to disperse the demonstrators from the site.
Protesters were also spotted rallying at various busy intersections and market places throughout the town.
While many private buses remained off the streets since morning, there was a noticeable decrease in passengers using the state-operated buses compared to typical weekdays.
The organizers of the strike asserted that a significant portion of the local population, including business owners and traders, were supporting the strike out of frustration regarding the beef smuggling incidents and the miscreants involved.
On May 29, unrest emerged over claims of illegal beef transportation by a pickup truck in the Matigara area. The VHP and Bangiya Hindu Mahamancha, alongside local residents, protested by blocking the road, alleging that the local police were complicit in the smuggling activities.
“Following this, some individuals involved in the smuggling assaulted our activists. The residence of one of our members was also attacked and severely damaged,” stated a representative of Bangiya Hindu Mahamancha.
Point of View
It is crucial to examine the layers of community response and law enforcement's role in the unrest in Siliguri. The situation reflects deep-seated concerns regarding illegal activities and local governance. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes essential to understand the balance between public safety and the rights to protest.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the protests in Siliguri?
The protests were ignited by allegations of illegal beef smuggling in the region and subsequent violence against activists attempting to intervene.
How many people were arrested during the protests?
Seven protesters were arrested by the Siliguri Metropolitan Police during the demonstrations.
What were the main grievances of the protesters?
Protesters expressed frustration over the illegal beef smuggling and alleged police complicity in these activities.
What was the impact on local transportation?
The strike led to many private buses being off the roads, and state-run bus ridership decreased significantly.
How did local businesses respond to the strike?
Many local business owners and traders reportedly supported the strike, voicing their outrage over the ongoing issues related to beef smuggling.
