Huge impact of Bandh in Silchar; Heavy deployment of Police fails to win trust as shops remain shut

Barak Valley, especially Silchar is experiencing an extraordinary strike today, as shops defiantly remained closed despite the strong presence of police officials attempting to break the strike. Around 200 individuals, including the District Cachar Congress President Abhijit Paul have been detained by the police from various parts of the district till now. 

The strike, organized in protest against the delimitation draft proposed by the Election Commission of India, has become a significant mark of dissent among the valley’s residents. The draft proposes a reduction in the number of Legislative Assembly seats from 15 to 13, despite the valley’s population exceeding four million. This move has sparked outrage, as it is seen as an attempt to undermine the representation of Barak Valley, contradicting its population growth.

From the early hours of the morning, the Cachar Police displayed a proactive approach to maintain control. As members of the District Congress Committee took to the streets, they were swiftly detained by the police. Reports suggest that approximately 200 individuals, including Abhijit Paul, the President of the Cachar District Congress Committee, have been apprehended.

In an unprecedented show of unity, the people of Silchar, as the other parts of Barak Valley, wholeheartedly supported the strike by keeping all shops closed. Despite the efforts of the police, the city’s bustling business hubs remained deserted throughout the morning. However, a limited number of vehicles were observed providing transportation services for emergency purposes.

While schools, colleges, and government offices remained open, a sparse presence of students and visitors was witnessed, possibly influenced by the prevailing strike atmosphere. It is worth noting that the authorities had issued a clear order for these institutions to continue functioning amidst the strike.

Congress workers have now begun staging demonstrations in front of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, further intensifying the protest. The police, determined to quell the impact of the strike, are maintaining a visible presence on the streets.