SC warned Gorkhland agitators to derecognise their parties if they blocked National Highway

January 25, 2010

FROM ALL INDIA RADIO

The Supreme Court today warned pro and anti-Gorkhaland agitators that blockade of National Highway, the economic lifeline for Sikkim, will bring serious consequences including de-recognition of political parties and arrest of their leaders.

A Bench comprising Chief Justice K G Balakrishnan and Justices Deepak Verma and B S Chauhan said, any further obstruction or blockade of NH 31A will bring serious consequences.

It noted that the highway not only connects Sikkim to the rest of the country but also passes through several districts and hilly places like Siliguri, Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Cooch Bihar in West Bengal to ensure supply of essential goods to the hilly region.

Sikkim government had last month moved the apex court against frequent blockade of the highway seeking a direction for West Bengal to ensure smooth traffic and freight movement which has bore the brunt of pro and anti-Gorkhaland protests.

source: barun roy