As Darjeeling continues its indefinite strike the hill shifts its position from being a lovable tourist destination to a violent zone.
Saturday saw violent clashes between GJM protesters and security personnel, which led to serious injuries to several security officers. GJM leaders also allege that three of the protesters were killed due to police firing.
However, the government denies of any police firing. The protesters pelted stones and bottles at the armed forces while the army retaliated with tear gases to control the situation.
The protesters even went on to set ablaze several army vehicles and buses in defiance of the West Bengal government.
The GJM Leader Binay Tamang also accused the Mamata Banerjee led government and TMC supporters of vandalising his house. The region that was once known for its immense beauty and peaceful disposition has now turned into a battle field.
The unrest in the hills is primarily the result of renewed demands for a separate land of Gorkhaland. People have been in continuous outrage ever since Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal Chief Minister enforced her new policy where Bengali was made a compulsory third language subject for all schools in West Bengal.
Tourists including foreigners have evacuated the holiday spot after the unrest grew and people are stranded and desperately trying to leave the place. Tourism is adversely affected by recent clashes in the area.
CM Mamata Banerjee offered to have a word with the GJM if only they end the bandh. However, the GJM refused to have any word with the TMC Government, and wants center to intervene.
Video Editor: Ashutosh Bhardwaj
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