2 GJM workers killed in Bengal police firing

In clash with protesters,several women police constables suffered serious injuries and they were rushed to the hospitals. Around 12 pm,the police opened fire at the protesters in which two GJM supporters were killed.

The deceased activists have been identified as Bimala Rai and Vicky Lama,while four other supporters are critical. At least 10 GJM supporters and 20 CRPF personnel received severe injuries during the clash.

According to sources in police,the forces opened fire after a GJM supporter attacked a woman constable — Karuna Tigga —with khukri,a sharp weapon,on her head. “The injured female constable is still unconscious and critical,” said a senior police official.

Ranveer Kumar,IG,North Bengal said,“It was not a peaceful protest. We have seized two pipe guns from the spot.” The official further said,“We have arrested Wilson Chapramari,MLA,Kalchini. Raids are being conducted in several areas.” Following the deaths of GJM activists,party supporters set police vehicles and the vehicle of a judge on fire in Darjeeling and set two public buses ablaze in Kalimpong. The protesters ransacked the office of the SP in Darjeeling. They also set eight government guest houses in Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling on fire and ransacked two police outposts at Alagiri and Pedong. Several trains at the North Frontier divisions were cancelled.

GJM General Secretary Roshan Giri said,“The CRPF fired at a peaceful procession killing two persons and critically injuring a number of people. Our hunger strike was on when the police came and they randomly shot our people. We have called for an indefinite strike and have also called for Chakka Jam.”

Giri further said they have sent a fax to the Union Home Minister P Chidambaram describing the incident. “We want the centre to intervene in the matter. We will not stay in West Bengal and we must have our own state—Gorkhaland,” he said.

At least 10,000 commuters and tourists meanwhile have been struck in various places in the region and the GJM have refused to allow any vehicle to move from the area. Naparajit Mukherjee,DGP,said,“We have asked for a report on the incident from the district. We are looking into the matter. If the situation demands,I will visit the place. However,at present,I do not have any such plan.” State Chief Secretary Samar Ghosh said they have requested for deployment of Army in Darjeeling but they are yet to get any response from the Defence Ministry.