Civic Volunteer's Mysterious Death at Training Camp Sparks Major Protests in Siliguri
A 36-year-old civic volunteer, Pankaj Barman, died under mysterious circumstances during a training program at the Dabgram 12th Battalion camp in Phulbari, Siliguri, on Monday. The incident has ignited widespread protests among trainees, who are voicing severe grievances over work conditions, inadequate pay, and extreme mental distress.
Details of the Tragic Incident
Pankaj Barman, who was posted at the Mathabhanga police station in Cooch Behar, was found unresponsive in the barracks on Monday morning. Authorities were alerted when he did not respond as usual after the trainees had dinner on Sunday night and retired to sleep. The body was subsequently taken to North Bengal Medical College and Hospital, where doctors officially declared him dead. A post-mortem examination has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.
Protests Erupt Over Alleged Injustice
The death triggered immediate and intense protests from the 750 trainee civic volunteers hailing from various north Bengal districts. The trainees refused to allow the body to be moved and blocked police attempts to transport it in a vehicle. After two hours of prolonged demonstrations, the body was finally shifted to the hospital.
The protesters allege that severe work pressure, coupled with inadequate pay despite a recent Rs 1,000 salary hike, has created an environment of extreme mental distress. They claim that fear of suspension or transfer for raising concerns has exacerbated the situation, leading to the loss of colleagues due to mental pressure.
Voices from the Ground: Trainees Speak Out
Prabir Gop, a fellow civic volunteer, expressed deep frustration: "Our salary has been increased by only Rs 1,000. How can a family survive on Rs 11,000 a month? If we protest, we are transferred or suspended. We have already lost many colleagues due to this mental pressure, and now we have lost another."
Alok Roy, another trainee, highlighted the unbearable mental strain: "The mental pressure is unbearable. I had to take a Rs 1,000 loan just to attend this training. We are the backbone of police stations—we do most of the work. If we raise our voice, we are threatened. Additionally, Rs 810 was deducted for food and accommodation. I don't know how we will manage."
Police Response and Investigation
In response to the incident, DCP Rakesh Singh stated that an unnatural death case has been registered. "Investigation has been initiated to trace the sequence of events. Police will extend all necessary assistance to family members of the deceased as per law," he assured.
The situation remains tense as the community and authorities grapple with the aftermath of this tragic event, underscoring broader issues of worker welfare and mental health in civic services.
