Amit Shah Condemns INDIA Bloc's Efforts Over Chicken Neck Corridor Slogans
Union Home Minister Amit Shah delivered a strong rebuke to the INDIA bloc on Friday, targeting their attempts to secure bail for individuals who allegedly raised slogans about severing the "chicken neck corridor". Speaking at a party workers' meeting in Bagdogra, Shah emphasized that such efforts have failed, as the Supreme Court rejected the bail pleas, and he declared that any intentions against India's territorial integrity will never succeed.
Shah's Fiery Address in Bagdogra
In his address, Amit Shah directly addressed the controversial slogans, stating, "Some people in Delhi chanted slogans saying they would cut the chicken neck corridor. How will you cut it? Is this your father's land? This is the land of India, and no one will be able to touch it." He highlighted that Delhi Police arrested the individuals and sent them to jail, with members of the INDI Alliance working to secure their release. Shah noted that their MPs even approached the Supreme Court to plead the case, but truth prevailed as the court rejected the bail application.
Understanding the Siliguri Corridor
The Siliguri Corridor, often referred to as the "Chicken's Neck," is a narrow strip of land in West Bengal, measuring approximately 20-22 km in width. This corridor serves as the sole land bridge connecting mainland India to its eight northeastern states, making it a strategically vital region for national security and connectivity.
Supreme Court's Ruling on Bail Pleas
Shah's remarks follow the Supreme Court's recent ruling, which denied bail to Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in connection with the 2020 Delhi riots conspiracy case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The court granted bail to five other co-accused: Gulfisha Fatima, Meeran Haider, Shifa Ur Rehman, Mohd. Saleem Khan, and Shadab Ahmad. The Court noted that Khalid and Imam stand on a "qualitatively different footing" due to their central roles in the alleged offences, and their ongoing incarceration does not violate constitutional mandates or statutory laws.
Background of the Case
Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam, and others were arrested in January 2020 under the stringent provisions of the UAPA in relation to the Delhi riots that occurred in February 2020. The case has drawn significant attention, with the Supreme Court's decision underscoring the legal complexities and the government's stance on national security issues.
Amit Shah's comments reinforce the government's firm position against any threats to India's territorial integrity, while the judicial outcomes highlight the ongoing legal proceedings in high-profile cases involving national security.
