Kolkata: A 12-hour shutdown called by the BJP on Wednesday partially disrupted daily life in various parts of West Bengal. The protest was in response to recent police action against demonstrators during a march to the state secretariat.
In Kolkata, the usual weekday hustle was noticeably reduced, with fewer buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis operating. The number of private vehicles on the roads was also significantly lower, though markets and shops remained open as usual.
Educational institutions, including schools and colleges, continued their activities, but many private offices saw reduced attendance as employees were advised to work from home.
In Bhabanipur, BJP MLA Agnimitra Pal was seen urging residents not to use their vehicles during the shutdown.
BJP supporters staged demonstrations at several railway stations, including Bongaon in North 24 Parganas, Gocharan in South 24 Parganas, and Murshidabad. Tension escalated at Barrackpore station as BJP and TMC supporters confronted each other.
The shutdown also affected train services, with BJP workers blocking a local train at Hooghly station. In Nandigram, located in the Purba Medinipur district, BJP activists picketed on the roads, causing traffic disruptions.
In Malda, clashes broke out between TMC and BJP supporters over road blockades, prompting police intervention to disperse the groups.
In Bankura town, BJP activists held a demonstration at the bus stand, while in Alipurduar, they clashed with police as they attempted to block a major road, chanting slogans demanding the resignation of the chief minister.
The shutdown, which began at 6 a.m., was called by the BJP to protest against the police's actions during the 'Nabanna Abhijan' on Tuesday. The march, organized by a newly formed students' group called Chatra Samaj, was held to demand the resignation of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee following the tragic rape and murder of a doctor at RG Kar Hospital.
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