New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched a scathing attack on those threatening to sever the Siliguri Corridor, popularly known as the ‘Chicken’s Neck’, during his visit to West Bengal, asserting that the strategic strip is unequivocally Indian territory that no one can touch.
Addressing a gathering of BJP workers in Siliguri (near Bagdogra), Shah declared, “This is India’s land. No one can lay a hand on it.” He mocked separatist rhetoric, saying, “Some people in Delhi chanted slogans that they would cut this ‘Chicken Neck’. Brother, how will you cut it? Is this your father’s land?”
Shah referenced inflammatory statements from anti-CAA protests, particularly those attributed to Sharjeel Imam, who allegedly spoke of blocking the narrow corridor — a 20-22 km wide lifeline connecting mainland India to the Northeast states — to isolate Assam and disrupt supplies. Shah highlighted that Delhi Police arrested individuals for such slogans, and despite efforts by opposition ‘INDIA’ alliance leaders and MPs — who approached the Supreme Court for bail — the apex court rejected the pleas, upholding justice.
The remarks come amid ongoing concerns over the corridor’s vulnerability due to its geography, bordered by Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh and close to China. Shah’s visit underscores the BJP’s focus on national security in West Bengal ahead of future polls, framing threats to territorial integrity as unacceptable and politically motivated.
By reaffirming strong action against divisive elements, Shah sent a clear message: attempts to challenge India’s unity will face firm legal and political resistance.