Darjeeling unrest: Clashes break out between security forces, GJM supporters

TNN, 17 June, KOLKATA: At least one police officer was reported injured in the pitch battle between the supporters of Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM), state policemen and para-military forces on Saturday morning.

The clashes started when cops stopped a protest rally by the women's wing of the GJM at Singmari. Police tried to disperse the rally but protestors retaliated by pelting stones and attacking the forces with slings. this is when the cops resorted to lathicharge and used tear gas shells to control the mob.

"One of our officers has been hit on the head. He is being rushed to the hospital," an officer said.

The main problem the cops are facing is the unknown terrain. "The GJM supporters know the terrain well which is why they are managing to find refuge every time we are chasing them away. They are regrouping and attacking us again," said another officer.