Siliguri, 07th August: An anti-encroachment drive by the Siliguri Municipal Corporation (SMC) at Jalpai More faced strong opposition on Wednesday. The operation aimed to remove shops constructed on a high drainage system, but the Jalpai More Byabsayee Samiti, representing local business owners, halted the proceedings.
The committee insisted on prior discussions and the provision of rehabilitation plans for affected shop owners before any demolition. Local residents supported the protest, blocking the Municipal Corporation’s machinery and holding posters in opposition.
The protest forced SMC employees to suspend the operation. During the incident, the Mayor, who was passing through Jalpai More, instructed officials to proceed with the removal of shops encroaching on the road and drainage system.