Siliguri: Clash breaks out over cricket tournament—stones pelted at police

Siliguri: Clash breaks out over cricket tournament—stones pelted at police

A minor disagreement over a local cricket tournament in Siliguri's Bagracote area turned violent on Sunday, resulting in clashes between two groups.

The dispute soon escalated into stone-pelting, vandalism, and arson.

Eyewitness videos circulating on social media show police officers taking cover from stones, vehicles being set ablaze, and mobs running amok.

Police vans set on fire by mob

Local police were called to the scene but were soon outnumbered by the violent crowd.

In response to stone-pelting by the crowd, police resorted to baton charges and tear gas.

Several vehicles, including police vans and private cars parked nearby, were set on fire during the unrest.

Shops and properties in the vicinity also suffered damage.

Cause of dispute still unclear

A heavy deployment of security forces is now present in the area to restore order.

Some people who allegedly incited violence have been arrested; however, the police have yet to confirm any arrests or injuries officially.

The exact cause of the dispute remains unclear, with local sources suggesting it could be over a controversial decision during the cricket tournament.