Miscreants attack locals in Birbhum over liquor protest

Some people from Khukudiha village of Suri in Birbhum who protested against the illegal selling of liquor were attacked by local miscreants on Monday. The accused also ransacked the houses of the protestors and beat some of them up, causing serious injuries.

Local residents had on Monday organised a rally in the area protesting the sale of illicit liquor. This had infuriated the local thugs who often frequent the illegal liquor dens. When some of these people were returning home after attending the rally, the goons suddenly attacked them.

They were beaten up mercilessly till locals and passers-by came to their rescue. The attackers, however, had fled by the time the local people reached the scene, attracted by the screams of the victims. Nearly 10 persons were injured in the attack.

Later that night, the miscreants again attacked and ransacked the homes of some of the protestors. They also hurled bombs in an attempt to terrify the people so that no one would dare to raise a voice against the selling of illicit liquor again.

The incident triggered tension in the area. A huge contingent of police and combat forces rushed to the spot after being informed about the attacks. A police picket was set up at the village as anxiety prevailed among the locals. On the basis of the complaint lodged by the victims, the police have started a case against the perpetrators.

They have also started conducting raids to nab the culprits but are yet to make any arrests.

Local people alleged that the area is often frequented by antisocial elements who buy liquor from the shop. After the incident, local residents claimed they are now afraid to go out of their homes after sun-down. Despite repeated pleas to the authorities, no action was taken against the accused, according to the locals.