Cachar Police Conducts Flag March in Silchar, “In solidarity with those who want to work and not follow the strike,” SP

In a show of opposition against the proposed 12-hour strike on June 27, initiated by various organizations protesting the delimitation draft proposed by the Election Commission of India (ECI), the Cachar Police conducted a Flag March in the heart of Silchar town. The officials, donning their uniforms, aimed to reassure the residents of Silchar that they need not fear any disruption to law and order if they choose not to participate in the strike.

The proposed delimitation draft by the ECI suggests reducing the representation of Barak Valley from the current 15 seats to 13, while also reserving the Silchar Lok Sabha seat for candidates belonging to the SC (Scheduled Caste) community.

Speaking to the press, Cachar Superintendent of Police (SP), Numal Mahatta, emphasized that the Supreme Court has declared strikes or bandhs as illegal means of protest. The Flag March was an effort to convey to the people of Silchar that they are safe and need not be concerned about any law and order issues if they decide to carry on with their daily activities.

SP Mahatta also highlighted the plight of daily wage earners who rely on their work to sustain themselves and their families. The march aim to show solidarity assuring them that the police force stands with them. He further appealed to the Chamber of Commerce and other organizations representing the working class to continue their routine activities without fear of any disruption to law and order.

The upcoming strike on June 27 has gained support from various political organizations in Barak Valley, as well as several social and cultural groups. Pradip Dutta Roy, representing the Barak Democratic Front, has already informed the SP that their support will be peaceful and without engaging in any form of picketing.

Despite the police’s efforts to dissuade participation in the strike, it remains to be seen whether a significant portion of Barak Valley will actively participate, potentially making the strike a success, or if the residents will choose to carry on with their daily lives, thwarting the agitation.