Howrah, 14 July (H.S.): Alleging prolonged denial of basic civic and government services, local residents on Tuesday staged a demonstration and gheraoed the Bankra-III Gram Panchayat office in Howrah district.

The protesters claimed that despite repeated visits to the panchayat office, they had failed to receive benefits under various government schemes, essential documentation services, and solutions to local civic issues. Frustrated by the alleged inaction, a large number of villagers gathered outside the office to register their protest.

The situation turned tense during the demonstration, with a section of the protesters allegedly vandalising the windows of the panchayat office. The incident created tension in the area.

Police rushed to the spot, while personnel of the Central Armed Police Forces were also deployed to maintain law and order. Security was tightened to prevent any further untoward incidents.

Administrative officials present at the scene held discussions with the protesters in an effort to defuse the situation and restore normalcy.

The demonstrators said they had no intention of creating unrest and that their sole objective was to draw the administration's attention to their legitimate grievances. They alleged that they were compelled to protest after repeated failures to resolve their problems through the panchayat.

Panchayat authorities, meanwhile, said the complaints would be examined and necessary steps would be taken to address the issues. They, however, condemned the vandalism at the government office, stating that such acts could not be justified under any circumstances.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey