Siliguri, 01st August: The Siliguri Municipal Corporation’s ongoing campaign against encroachment has come under scrutiny after its efforts were halted by protesters waving INTTUC flags. Following this, allegations of bias have surfaced.
On Wednesday, the Municipal Corporation initiated an anti-encroachment drive in Mallaguri, successfully removing numerous illegal shops. The operation left many business owners visibly distressed and helpless as their establishments were demolished. However, the campaign encountered resistance as it progressed beyond Biswadeep Cinema Hall.
Protesters, bearing INTTUC flags, confronted the municipal officials and their machinery, resulting in a half-hour standoff. The municipal corporation eventually withdrew from the scene without completing the operation.
This incident mirrors a previous instance where the corporation retreated without taking action after facing protests from individuals wielding TMC and INTTUC flags during an earlier anti-encroachment drive.
These repeated occurrences have led many to question the impartiality of the municipal corporation’s enforcement actions, with accusations of influence.