Civil unrest in Darjeeling, India

Protests have been occurring in Singamari, on the outskirts of Darjeeling in West Bengal. Clashes have been reported with protesters throwing objects at police, who have responded with tear gas and baton charges. Three of the protest leaders were killed, and further demonstrations blocked the National Highway 31 in parts of the Darjeeling district.

The Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) called for an indefinite bandh (strike) in the Darjeeling hills after security forces raided the residence of the GJM leader (the chief official in the region) on 15 June. The bandh will continue until security forces are withdrawn.

Advice

Security forces are patrolling the streets, and police checkpoints are at the entry and exit routes of Darjeeling. Internet services are suspended in the region. Except for pharmacies, all shops, hotels, restaurants and government offices are closed.

If you have plans to travel to the Darjeeling area, check with your tour operator to determine if your travel plans are affected. Follow the advice of local authorities.