TMC protest hits traffic, courts

TT, Siliguri, Dec. 22: A demonstration by the Trinamul Congress in front of the Siliguri Municipal Corporation office here for around two hours today led to traffic congestion and affected the functioning of courts.

The demonstration was held to protest the alleged failure of the Left Front-run civic body in providing basic services to people.

As leaders and workers of the ruling party assembled in front of the SMC building around 11.15am for the demonstration, the stretch that connects Kutcheri Road with Baghajatin Park turned congested. Police diverted traffic at either end of the road that passes by the SMC office.

As Trinamul leaders and councillors gave fiery speeches one after another over microphones and supporters shouted slogans, functioning of around five courts in a nearby building was disrupted.

Around 1.15pm, the Trinamul councillors entered the SMC office for the monthly board meeting.

As the Opposition attacked the board, mayor Asok Bhattacharya said: "We are facing an acute financial crisis as the state is not cooperating with the civic board. However, we are hopeful that the crisis will be over by May next year as the Trinamul government will not be there."

The mayor's comment evoked protest from the councillors of Trinamul as well as the Congress. "How can the mayor make such comments during the board meeting? We want him to withdraw his words immediately," said Nantu Pal, the leader of the opposition.