CPI(M),BJP call strike 'successful', TMC terms it as 'failure'

The Left Front, the BJP and trade unions today termed the 12-hour general strike in West Bengal as "an unprecedented success", while the ruling Trinamool Congress described the bandh in the state as an "utter failure".
Normal life was partially affected across the state by a 12-hour general strike called by Left parties and trade unions as well as a 10-hour bandh called by the BJP to protest against alleged violence by ruling Trinamool Congress in the recent civic polls.
"The strike has been an unprecedented success in Bengal. The people have openly come out in support of the strike. The success of the strike proves that the masses too are angry and disenchanted with the TMC over anarchy and violence let loose by TMC during the KMC and municipal polls," Bose said while addressing a media conference.

"The TMC has tried to use all kinds of forces, from administration, goons and money power to foil the strike. They even ransacked buses which didn't ply today. Since last two days they have been threatening traders and transport operators not to support the strike," Bose alleged.
TMC secretary-general and state education minister Partha Chatterjee termed the strike as an utter failure, saying the people are against halting the development process in the state.
"The strike has been a complete failure and the people of the state are against the backdated culture of strikes and bandhs. The sinister agenda of the opposition CPI(M) and BJP has been foiled by the masses. Those who do not enjoy any mass support are trying to stop the development of the state," Chatterjee said.

Though, the transport services, including the Metro Railway, suburban trains and state and private buses were available, there were fewer people on roads. There were reports of stray clashes between bandh supporters and the ruling party workers, who opposed the strike, in some parts of the state.
BJP state President Rahul Sinha today said the strike was complete success as it was not confined within the limits of any political party.
"The strike has been a complete success as it was not confined within the limits of any political party. The people themselves has been made this strike a successful. The way the police has tried to foil the strike is condemnable," said Sinha.