Siliguri, 26th February: Tension gripped the Tinbatti More area in Siliguri on Thursday over the Uttar Kanya Abhiyan called by Janjati Suraksha Mancha.
The protest was organised in connection with an alleged incident in December at Jhamkalal Jote in Phansidewa, where an Adivasi woman was reportedly assaulted over a land dispute. Although a police complaint was lodged in the matter, all accused persons were not arrested, prompting fresh agitation.
In protest against the incident, the Uttar Kanya Abhiyan was called in Siliguri. BJP MLA Durga Murmu, along with BJP leaders, party workers and members of the Vishva Hindu Parishad, also participated in the rally.
As the procession reached near Tinbatti More, police stopped the march, leading to a tense situation. When protesters allegedly attempted to break police barricades, water cannons were used and tear gas shells were fired to disperse the crowd.
Protesters reportedly hurled stones at police and set tyres ablaze on the road as part of the demonstration.
Police detained several individuals in connection with the unrest. Further investigation into the incident is underway.