Siliguri, 06th May: In a recent development, the local of the area protested against filling of a pond in Jamurivita area of Fulbari I Anchal under Dabgram-Fulbari assembly constituency. The protest resulted in an atmosphere of widespread tension in the area.
As per reports, the pond in the said area is used during the Chhath Puja. Additionally, during the Durga Puja, idols are immersed there. From a few days, the work of filling the pond is underway which prompted the resentment of the locals. To express their dissatisfaction, the locals resorted to protest on Monday morning.
Upon receiving the news, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA from Dabgram-Fulbari Sikha Chatterjee arrived at the area and spoke to the local people. During this the MLA alleged that pond’s fill-up work is not being undertaken for beautification, but for building multi-storey building and restaurant. She supported her statement while citing the presence of large construction pits in the site.
In the meantime, a large number of Trinamool workers led by Sukant Kar, INTTUC President of Dabgram-Fulbari and Vice President Anand Sinha arrived at the spot. Following their arrival, in no time an altercation and a subsequent scuffle occurred between the two parties. Subsequently, the matter was informed to NJP police. Upon being alerted, the officials reached the spot and controlled the situation.
Meanwhile, the BJP and the area local accused the TMC workers and supporters of assaulting local women during the protest. On the other hand, Sukanta Kar refuted the allegations stating that beautification work has been initiated keeping in mind its importance as the puja and immersion of idols are done in the pond.