A 12-hour bandh organized by the BJP in Silliguri, within the Siliguri Police Commissionerate, saw a mixed response on 29th of April. The bandh was called to protest recent attacks on party workers, with several BJP activists also blocking the national highway, demanding decisive action against the assailants.
The police have arrested two individuals, Nitesh Singh and Abdul Ali, in connection with the alleged attacks on BJP workers. They were produced before the court today. Post-poll violence erupted in the Matigara area yesterday, leaving more than 10 BJP supporters injured, including women.
The trouble began when Jai Shri Ram slogans sparked clashes, resulting in an attack on the residence of Nandkishore Thakur, a BJP booth president, by miscreants reportedly backed by the Trinamul Congress. BJP leaders staged protests in front of the Matigara police station last night and called for a 12-hour bandh in response.
Traffic disruptions occurred as BJP workers blocked the national highway by burning tires. Heavy police deployment was implemented to prevent further violence. Local markets remained shut due to the bandh.
Expressing outrage, BJP Siliguri district president Arun Mandal condemned what he called “political terrorism” and vowed not to allow the region to turn into another Sandeshkhali, referring to a troubled area. BJP candidate Raju Bista accused TMC-backed miscreants, particularly Kailash Mandal, of orchestrating the violence, alleging threats and attacks on party workers and their families.
