Siliguri, 25th May: A scene of confusion and concern unfolded in Siliguri’s Ward No. 17 at Khelaghar More on Sunday when a coffin was spotted placed in front of a house, creating a stir among local residents. According to reports, several school students were seen standing near the coffin, while two youths were taking photographs, which further alarmed the public.
Unable to understand the situation, locals immediately informed the ward councilor, who then alerted the Siliguri Police. Upon receiving the information, police officials promptly arrived at the scene.
Subsequent investigation revealed that the coffin was symbolic and was being used by a voluntary organization as part of an awareness-based documentary shoot for Environment Day. The imagery was intended to represent a dead tree, symbolizing the oxygen crisis and environmental threats for future generations.
However, controversy arose as it was discovered that the NGO was conducting the shoot without official permission. This incident comes in the wake of the recent arrest of YouTube blogger Jyoti, after which the state government issued a mandate requiring prior police permission for any form of photography or shooting in public areas within the city.
Police have reiterated that no shooting activities will be permitted without proper authorization moving forward.