Bharat Bandh: Rail and road blocks at several locations; Protesters clash with cops

The nationwide 'Bharat Bandh' called by various labour organizations today has seen a partial but noticeable impact, particularly in West Bengal and Bihar. In Kolkata, special police forces were deployed to manage the situation, as attempts were made in several parts of Bengal to obstruct train services and roads. Protesters resorted to burning tires on national highways, leading to clashes with the police, while in Bihar, striking workers also confronted law enforcement personnel.

In West Bengal's North 24 Parganas, specifically at Barrackpore, police engaged in skirmishes with striking workers from the CITU (Centre of Indian Trade Unions) after they attempted to jam railway tracks. Following clashes and the removal of protesters from Railway Gate No. 15, train services on the Sealdah main line were eventually resumed. Rapid Action Force (RAF) and a large contingent of police personnel were deployed to clear the tracks and restore order.

The impact of the Bharat Bandh was felt across various districts. In Bihar, trains were halted in Jehanabad and Darbhanga, with Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) workers blocking roads. Rahul Gandhi was also expected to join the 'Chakka Jam' (road blockade) protest. In West Bengal, several stations on the Sealdah and Howrah lines experienced obstructions, causing train delays. Protesters were active on roads in areas like Lake Town and Jadavpur, and a lathi-charge was reported in Domjur, Howrah.

Further disruptions were observed in other districts: bus drivers in Cooch Behar were seen wearing helmets for safety, while roads remained deserted and most shops closed in Alipurduar, Birbhum, and Bankura districts. Incidents of coercion and intimidation were also reported in these areas, necessitating extensive police arrangements to maintain law and order. The mixed response to the strike highlights the varying levels of support and the preventive measures taken by authorities to minimize disruption.