A dramatic scene unfolded at Gobardanga Railway Station in North 24 Parganas district on Tuesday as local traders and hawkers obstructed railway tracks to oppose eviction measures linked to a state-wide anti-encroachment initiative. Footage from the station depicted men and women chanting “cholbe na, cholbe na” (we will not tolerate this) while resisting enforcement efforts to dismantle their stalls and shops. An elderly woman even lay down on the tracks in a striking act of defiance.

Protesters articulated concerns over their livelihoods, emphasising that their businesses at the station were essential for their survival. One demonstrator alleged that the authorities were ‘kicking us in the stomach,’ asserting that the eviction campaign would leave numerous families without a source of income.

Background of the Eviction Drive

This protest comes in the wake of a significant railway land clearance campaign that began last month. Authorities have been dismantling makeshift vendors’ stalls and structures near major railway stations, arguing that the drive aims to restore public spaces and enhance passenger convenience. An overnight eviction operation at Dum Dum Junction was conducted by a joint team comprising Railways personnel, Kolkata Police, and paramilitary forces, which resulted in the removal of encroachments.

Prior to this, roughly 250 hawkers and stalls were cleared from Howrah station. Heavy machinery was used to level temporary structures that occupied footpaths and public spaces near the bus stand and the Ganga ghat area, further exacerbating tensions among vendors.

Many hawkers affected by these operations claimed they were not given sufficient notice regarding the demolitions. Reports indicated that the eviction drive has substantially disrupted their livelihoods, prompting demands for rehabilitation or alternative arrangements before any further eviction takes place. One stall owner remarked to PTI that “we will have to resort to suicide if no rehabilitation is provided.” This statement highlights the dire situation faced by affected vendors.

Wider Implications and Political Responses

The anti-encroachment efforts have expanded to other busy commercial zones in the region. In Kolkata’s New Market, multiple unauthorised commercial structures have been removed with the aid of bulldozers in recent weeks, drawing widespread attention.

The Trinamool Congress (TMC), now functioning in opposition after 15 years in power, has accused the BJP government of endorsing a “bulldozer culture.” TMC leaders have pledged to take to the streets to protest against the supposed forced eviction of hawkers from railway land and nearby station areas. TMC chief Mamata Banerjee recently claimed that ordinary citizens and small traders are living in fear due to these activities, criticising the lack of a proper rehabilitation plan for the evicted hawkers.

The ongoing dispute reflects broader tensions surrounding urban development, livelihood security, and governmental policies. As authorities continue their efforts to clear encroachments, the plight of vendors raises pertinent questions about the balance between urban infrastructure development and the rights of low-income traders.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share