NHRC sends notice to West Bengal govt on Dinhata police firing

New Delhi, Feb 8 : The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) today sent notice to the West Bengal government and the State police, asking their replies on police firing at Dinhata in Cooch Behar District that claimed five lives.

On February 5, five Forward Bloc activists were killed and 50 others were injured when police opened fire on party supporters, who turned violent during an agitation programme at Dinhata.

The activists were protesting against Special Economic Zones and big capital's entry into retail. The deceased were in the age group of 25 to 65.

Eight Forward Bloc supporters reportedly suffered bullet injuries. The protesters were shot above the waist and those who died suffered head or neck injury.

Calling it a serious issue of violation of human rights, the commission has given four weeks time to the two authorities for their comments.

ANI