WB: Curfew in Siliguri to continue

Siliguri, Sep 29: The indefinite curfew, clamped in this North Bengal town after people went berserk following an alleged remark by a Delhi FM channel about Indian Idol Prashant Tamag, is likely to continue even today.

However, North Bengal Inspector General of Police R J F Nalwa told te souces here that the situation was under control as the army and police were patrolling Siliguri and adjoining areas.

''There is no report of any untoward incident since the curfew was imposed from 1700 hours yesterday,'' the IGP said adding that the Army flagmarched the trouble-torn town to restore peace.

The entire town looked deserted as all government offices, financial institutions, schools and commercial establishments remained closed in view of the curfew.

''Panic was, however, palpable in several areas of the town and the army and BSF were patrolling to avoid any untoward incident,'' Mr Nalwa said.

He added that all political parties, local administration, the BSF, army and the police would hold a meeting today to discuss the situation.

An all party peace rally would also be organised to instil confidence among the people.

Trouble erupted yesterday when a procession was on its way to submit a memorandum to the Siliguri sub-divisional officer against the remark by the radio jockey.

Police rushed to the spot and lobbed 125 rounds of teargas shells and fired seven rounds in the air to control the situation.

But the protestors attacked the police and damaged two vehicles, compelling them to use lathis in which 30 people sustained injuries.

The injured had been admitted to the Siliguri District Hospital, IG said.

UNI