Darjeeling unrest: Internet still suspended, slain GJM men’s kin vow to carry on fight for Gorkhaland

Security forces patrolled the streets in the hills and Internet services remained suspended for the second day today as Gorkha Janmukti Morcha supporters held protest march in Darjeeling demanding Gorkhaland and burnt effigies of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Carrying black flags, protesters, especially the youth, marched on the streets of Chowkbazar area shouting slogans against the state government and the chief minister. Protesters also burnt effigies of Banerjee and vowed to continue their fight for Gorkhaland. “Three of our activists were killed. We are ready to give our lives but will not stop protesting till we get Gorkhaland,” Sirish Pradhan, a GJM worker, said. Several small processions were taken out by GJM activists in various parts of Darjeeling. Internet services remained suspended for the second day today.

According to police sources, the step was taken to stop GJM activists from using the social media to spread “provocative posts”. Security forces patrolled the streets as the situation remained tense on the fifth day of GJM-sponsored indefinite shutdown.

“The situation is still very tense. Since morning there has been no incident of violence. But we are on high alert and are prepared for any eventuality,” said a senior police officer. Chief Minister Mamata …read more