Protest erupts at Howrah's Tikiapara against Bulldozer action on slums

A massive anti-encroachment drive unfolded along the Howrah East-West Bypass in Tikiapara following a directive from the court. Bulldozers rolled into the area early in the morning to demolish unauthorized structures that had been built on land owned by the Railways. Authorities revealed that the plot was illegally occupied, with several dwellers allegedly obtaining fraudulent identification documents to secure their stay on the premises.

The eviction operation saw heavy security deployment to prevent any major breakdown of law and order. A large contingent consisting of the Railway Protection Force (RPF), the Government Railway Police (GRP), and the Howrah City Police cordoned off the entire stretch. Central paramilitary forces were also deployed at strategic points to keep the escalating tension under control.

The local community erupted in strong protests as the demolition commenced, temporarily halting the machinery. Displaced slum dwellers argued that the sudden action left them vulnerable, asking the administration where they were supposed to go with their young children and elderly family members. Protesters blocked sections of the road, demanding immediate rehabilitation or additional time to safely relocate their belongings.

Despite the intense agitation and heated arguments between the locals and the law enforcement personnel, the administration pushed forward with the clearing process. Officials maintained that freeing the heavily congested railway land was a necessary legal compliance. Police personnel remained stationed at the spot late into the day to ensure the cleared area stayed secure.