Terai society body issues appeal for harmony

SNS, SILIGURI, 3 JULY 2017: An apolitical organisation Gorkha Peace Forum Terai (GPFT) has come forward with an appeal to all political parties and non political business organisations as well as the citizens of Siliguri to maintain peace and harmony in view of the ongoing turmoil in the Hills and even violence in Siliguri over the demand of a separate statehood of Gorkhaland.

The spokesperson of GPFT, Shakti Sharma said: "Recent incidents in Siliguri have raised the questions of peace and harmony amongst the different communities residing here."

"People of all folks are residing here peacefully, Recent attacks on Sikkim bound vehicles and threatening through social media is not our culture. We should protest it:'

As per reports, during the peace rally in Siliguri on 30 June, many vehicles were vandalised and two women were attacked on the Hill Cart Road in Siliguri.

Such an incident surfaced in broad daylight in front of a peace rally, raising many questions about the sincerity of the citizens residing in Siliguri.

"There are reports of lack of fuel and basic supplies for the Army, who are guarding Indo-China border of Sikkim owing to the violent situation in Siliguri."

"We appeal to the citizens of Siliguri to maintain peace and harmony during these crucial episodes. We must understand and respect each other to remain united", Mr Sharma added.

The forum has urged before all concerned organisations to put an end to the rumours and avoid getting carried away by social media posts.