Student killed in Bengal for protesting against crimes

The body of a college student, chopped to pieces, was found beside the railway track between Duttapukur and Bamongachi stations in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district Saturday, police said Saturday.

The victim's family and locals alleged that Sourav Chowdhury, missing since Friday night, was killed by miscreants for protesting against anti-social activities in the area. An empty cartridge shell was also found at the spot.

"We have filed a murder case. We are investigating the matter. I can't say anything more now," said North 24 Parganas Police Superintendent Tanmay Roy Chowdhury.

The body parts, lying scattered along the tracks, were found early Saturday.

Demanding the arrest of the culprits, local residents set up road and railway blockades through the day. Police chased protestors with batons when the busy Jessore Road was blockaded.

The BJP has called for a 12-hour strike at Bamongachi area in protest against the killing. A state BJP team led by its chief Rahul Sinha will visit the area Sunday.

"From the balcony, I saw a group of people last night. When they passed by our house, I saw they were beating up and dragging my brother. I informed my father then. We informed the local panchayat member. But nobody came," said Chowdhury's brother.

The locals alleged that Chowdhury had to pay with his life for protesting against illegal liquor dens and gambling rackets operating in the area.