A group of more than 100 individuals launched a violent attack on police personnel in Romi village, Hazaribag district, when they arrived to assist Border Security Force (BSF) jawan Prakash Sharma in taking possession of land allotted to him by the government. The incident occurred on Friday and resulted in injuries to six police officers and the operator of an earthmover.
According to Deputy Commissioner Nancy Sahay, Prakash Sharma was granted 10 decimal (4,355 sq.ft) of land in Romi village under the government's rehabilitation policy. However, whenever Sharma attempted to claim the allotted land, local residents vehemently opposed his actions.
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In response to Sharma's plea for assistance, the district administration deployed a substantial police force to the area. Superintendent of Police Manoj Ratan Chothe stated that as the operation to take possession of the land commenced, the mob began pelting stones at the police officers.
"At least six police personnel were injured, including the operator of the earthmover who sustained a head injury. We have arrested 15 individuals and registered an FIR for obstructing the police from carrying out official duties," Chothe explained.
To regain control of the situation, the police resorted to baton charges and used tear gas to disperse the violent mob. The exact number of injuries resulting from the police action remains unclear at this time.
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Sub-Divisional Police Officer Nazir Akhtar revealed that the plot of land allocated to Prakash Sharma was in close proximity to a local school. The villagers claimed that the land rightfully belonged to the school, expressing concerns about potential disruptions to its activities if it were given to the BSF jawan.
Akhtar assured that the situation is now under control, with the mob dispersing following the police intervention. Security has been intensified in the area, and additional protection has been provided to Prakash Sharma to ensure his safety.
(With PTI Inputs)
