Bus Footstep Dispute Triggers Major Highway Blockade in Khargone
A simple bus journey turned into a major law and order situation in Khargone district on Monday night. What began as a minor argument between passengers escalated dramatically, resulting in a five-hour highway blockade and significant police mobilization.
How a Footstep Sparked the Conflict
The incident started during a routine bus trip from Indore to Khargone. According to police officials, a passenger accidentally stepped on another traveler's foot while disembarking at a hotel in Khalghat area of Dhar district. This seemingly small incident quickly turned into a heated argument.
"Four individuals allegedly assaulted the youth who objected to the accidental footstep," explained Khargone Additional Superintendent of Police Shakuntala Ruhal. The situation intensified when the injured passenger contacted acquaintances about the assault.
Police Intervention and Escalation
When the bus reached Arihant Nagar in Khargone district, villagers stopped the vehicle in response to the assault information. Recognizing the potential for tension, Kasrawad police station in-charge Rajendra Barman immediately intervened with his team.
Police escorted the bus to Kasrawad police station for safety. Officers managed to apprehend two accused individuals - Sultan and Arabaz Ali - who were involved in the initial assault. These suspects were subsequently handed over to Dhamnod police for further investigation. However, two other accused persons successfully fled the scene.
Protest and Highway Blockade
The situation took a serious turn when Hindu organizations accused Kasrawad police of misconduct during the incident handling. Protesters specifically alleged police misbehavior, lathi charge, and assault on two individuals.
In response to these allegations, organization members staged a major protest at Jay Stambh square in Kasrawad. They completely blocked traffic on the crucial Indore-Khargone highway, bringing all vehicular movement to a standstill.
The blockade lasted for nearly five hours, creating massive traffic congestion. Long queues of vehicles formed on both sides of the highway as the protest intensified throughout the night.
Massive Police Deployment
As the protest situation deteriorated, authorities deployed additional police forces from multiple stations across the region. Police personnel arrived from Khargone, Kasrawad, Mandleshwar, Maheshwar, and Mengaon police stations to control the escalating situation.
The substantial police presence aimed to restore order and clear the highway blockade that was affecting essential transportation routes.
Resolution Through Investigation Order
The breakthrough came when Superintendent of Police Ravindra Verma ordered a formal probe into the entire episode. He specifically directed a gazetted officer to investigate all aspects of the incident, including the initial assault and subsequent police handling.
This investigation order satisfied the protesters' demands for accountability. Following the announcement, protest organizers agreed to call off the highway blockade, allowing traffic to resume normal flow after the five-hour disruption.
The incident highlights how minor disputes can quickly escalate into major law and order situations requiring significant police resources and administrative intervention.
