12-hour Silchar strike to protest against Malin Sarma's death; several organisations announce support

The common people of Silchar supported by several organisations has called for 12-hour strike tomorrow. The bandh will begin at 5 am in the morning and will continue till 5pm in the evening. Various political organisations from both left and right also announced their support to the call for a 12-hour strike.

ACKHSA, NSUI, Cachar district Congress, Prayas NGO, Red Rose NGO, Lions Club Silchar among many other organisations issued public statement extending their support to the strike. Various socio-cultural organisations requested the citizens to observe the strike as a mark of protest against the casual attitude of the Police officials and uncountable loopholes in the security arrangements.

Last night at around 11:00 pm, senior journalist, Malin Sarma was run over by a truck leaving him dead on the spot. The Police officials are yet to identify the driver or the vehicle. Journalists have been demanding for immediate arrest of the driver but the administration is yet to make any progress.

Today, Malin Sarma’s body was handed over to his family members. His body was kept in front of BTN’s office in hospital road where many paid homage to the late journalist. His body was later taken to Gandhibagh where many locals visited to pay him a last tribute. Deputy Commissioner of Cachar, Laya Madduri also visited Gandhibagh but she was surrounded by women. Many of the female citizens started throwing questions to the head of administration but she dodged them all and decided to drive off.

Malin Sarma’s last rites were performed at the crematorium in Samshan Road Silchar.