Lukewarm response to anti-demonetisation strike in Bengal

Kolkata: Train and flight movement was normal, most vehicles hit the streets, and markets and shops mostly did normal business, as the 12-hour general strike called by 18 Left and other parties against demonetisation, evoked lukewarm response in West Bengal on Monday.

Schools and colleges remained open, though attendance was less than usual, while offices and business establishments functioned normally throughout the state.

In Kolkata, Metro services were normal, auto rickshaws and taxis were on the roads, and only a few private buses did not ply.

The Barrackpore industrial zone in neighbouring North 24 Parganas district saw heavy attendance of workers in the jute mills and other industrial unit, notwithstanding the state-wide shutdown called to protest against the harassment faced by people following the Centre's move.

The strike supporters put up a roadblock on Jessore Road, but the police removed them after some time.

The Left parties also took out a procession in Jadavpur.