Why Did Sukanta Majumdar Encounter Protests at Dum Dum Station?
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Synopsis
Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar faced unexpected protests from Trinamool Congress workers at Dum Dum station after unveiling West Bengal's first AC EMU. The incident highlights the political tensions in the region amid the launch of this modern train service.
Key Takeaways
- Sukanta Majumdar faced protests at Dum Dum station.
- The protest was led by Trinamool Congress workers.
- The newly launched AC EMU train aims to enhance local transport.
- The train operates on the Sealdah-Ranaghat route.
- Affordability is a key feature, with fares starting at Rs 35.
Kolkata, Aug 10 (NationPress) Union Minister of State for Education and DoNER, Sukanta Majumdar, encountered protests from a faction of Trinamool Congress workers at Dum Dum station following the launch of West Bengal's inaugural air-conditioned Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) from this location.
Majumdar, accompanied by Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shantanu Thakur, inaugurated the AC local train from Sealdah station and traveled to Dum Dum station.
As he exited the Dum Dum station area, members of the Trinamool Congress' trade union wing, Indian National Trinamool Trade Union Congress (INTTUC), raised slogans against MoS Majumdar and organized a protest.
Sukanta Majumdar, who previously served as the West Bengal BJP president, claimed that several party members were assaulted by members of the Trinamool's trade union.
The presence of the Railway Protection Force (RPF) helped prevent the situation from escalating further.
MoS Majumdar stated he would address the issue with the Railway Ministry. "We plan to file a formal complaint with the police regarding the actions of Trinamool Congress workers. They have assaulted and harassed our female workers. I will present this matter to the Railway Ministry along with video evidence of the incident. Those holding Trinamool Congress flags disrupted today's event," Majumdar commented.
In response, Trinamool workers claimed that the protest was a spontaneous response from the public against the BJP for mistreating Bengali migrant workers nationwide. "They brought outsiders here. The public has voiced their dissent against them," asserted local Trinamool leader Abhishek Saha.
This new AC EMU train, produced by the Chennai-based Integral Coach Factory (ICF), has been designated to the Sealdah Division of Eastern Railway (ER). The first AC local train will operate along the Sealdah-Ranaghat route, completing the journey in 1 hour and 40 minutes. With a maximum speed of 110 kmph, the train will provide swift service, stopping only at prominent stations. Regular commercial operations are set to commence from Ranaghat station on Monday.
The Sealdah-Ranaghat AC local train consists of 12 fully air-conditioned coaches with stainless steel constructions, ensuring a safe, secure, and comfortable travel experience. It can accommodate up to 1,126 seated passengers and will make stops at key stations including Chakdah, Kalyani, Kanchrapara, Naihati, Barrackpore, Khardah, Sodepur, Dum Dum, and Bidhannagar.
The fare for the Sealdah-Ranaghat AC local train is quite economical, with a full journey ticket priced at just Rs 120 and the minimum fare starting at Rs 35.
During the inauguration of the AC train, Sukanta Majumdar suggested renaming Sealdah station in honor of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee, a former minister and Hindutva activist.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize that political tensions are an ongoing reality in India. The clash between Sukanta Majumdar and Trinamool Congress workers at Dum Dum station illustrates the complexities of regional politics and the impact on public services. It's crucial to approach this narrative with a focus on the broader implications for governance and public sentiment.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the protests against Sukanta Majumdar?
The protests were initiated by Trinamool Congress workers in response to perceived mistreatment of Bengali migrant workers by the BJP, coinciding with the inauguration of the AC EMU.
What is the significance of the new AC EMU train?
The AC EMU train represents a significant advancement in local transportation in West Bengal, offering modern amenities and improved travel times along the Sealdah-Ranaghat route.
How does Sukanta Majumdar plan to address the protest incident?
Majumdar intends to file a formal complaint with the police and raise the issue with the Railway Ministry, citing harassment of BJP workers during the protest.
What are the features of the newly launched AC EMU train?
The train features 12 fully air-conditioned coaches, can accommodate 1,126 passengers, and operates at a speed of 110 kmph, providing a fast and comfortable travel experience.
What is the fare structure for the Sealdah-Ranaghat AC local train?
The fare for a full journey ticket is priced at Rs 120, while the minimum fare starts at Rs 35, making it an affordable option for commuters.
