Kolkata observes shutdown over attack on Congress workers

Kolkata, July 17 (ANI): A day after violent protests by Congress Party workers, Kolkata on Friday observed a shutdown in protest against the attack on party workers allegedly by Communist Party of India (Marxist) cadres.

Congress workers accused CPI (M) activists of attacking their party legislators and workers. Eight people were injured in the Mangalkot region of the state's Burdwan district.

Normal life was badly hit, as shops and business establishments remained closed due to the shutdown. No vehicle was seen plying on roads.

"There is political turbulence. There is vandalism. I have problems in commuting for work. As far as law and order is concerned, it is there in stature, we need someone to implement it. And if its not implemented, we need stronger checks to be exercised," said Puja Nahata, a resident.

Office goers expressed their anger, as there was no vehicle available to take them to their places of work.

"We are facing problems, especially for office goers. We have come here from outside for official duty. It is a national loss. There is no conveyance available for people to commute. All offices are closed," said A.K.Gupta, another resident.

Irate Congress Party workers on Thursday set at least four buses on fire and blocked traffic across Kolkata. One of the buses was set on fire on Howrah Bridge that links Kolkata to the busy Howrah railway station. (ANI)