Bengali group launches 'anti-Gorkhland' rally in West Bengal

GJM had blamed 'Anti-Gorkhaland forces' for creating division between hills and the plains.

A Bengali organization on Wednesday went on an anti-Gorkhaland rally amid calls for separate Gorkhaland state by Gorkha Janmukti Morcha in the hill district Darjeeling.

The Bengali organization called as 'Amra Bangali' (We are Bengalee) carried out a protest rally in Siliguri.

In fact, last month 'Amra Bangali' along with 'Bangla o Bangali Bachao Committee' (Committee to protect Bengal and Bengalis) went on a rally in the plains and took out massive rallies.

It may be recalled that early this month, GJM had blamed 'Anti-Gorkhaland forces' for creating division between hills and the plains.

The statement said, "Anti-Gorkhaland forces and TMC government-sponsored elements have been actively inciting the people of Siliguri, Odlabari, Malbazar, Meteli and parts of Dooars in communal hatred and division between hills and the plains."

Meanwhile, a police vehicle was set on fire by unknown assailants during GJM protest rally in Darjeeling on the 35th day of the indefinite shutdown. Police vehicles are under attack since the beginning of GJM movement. Yesterday also pro-Gorkhaland supporters clashed with police and set on fire two security vehicles and an outpost.

Army troops continued to maintain a vigil in Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Sonada. Paramilitary and police personnel also patrolled the streets in the hills.

(With agency inputs)