Varanasi: A violent clash erupted in Molnapur Talgaon village under Bhudkuda police station in Ghazipur district on Saturday afternoon, leaving several police personnel and villagers injured. The police team, accompanied by land revenue department officials, had arrived to resolve a dispute over a drain when one of the groups turned aggressive, according to Ghazipur Superintendent of Police Iraj Raja.
Incident Details
The block development officer of Jakhania, along with revenue officials and police, visited Molnapur Talgaon to investigate and mediate a drainage conflict. An underground drain had been constructed beneath a cemented road with chambers at various points. Some locals opposed the discharge of water belonging to Ramawati Kushwaha into the drain. On May 22, officials had held talks and explained that, as per rules, no one can be prevented from discharging water into a government drain.
On Saturday, the sub-divisional magistrate, Jakhania BDO, assistant development officer (Panchayat), village secretary, revenue inspector, and lekhpal arrived at the site with police and labourers to begin work. However, people from the Rajbhar-dominated area started opposing the drain connection. They obstructed government work, prevented labourers from working, and resorted to fighting and brick-batting, injuring many policemen. Several villagers were also hurt in the incident.
Legal Action
An FIR was lodged under sections 191(2) (rioting), 132 (assault to deter public servant), 352 (intentional insult provoking breach of peace), 351(3) (criminal intimidation), 121(1) (voluntarily causing hurt), 125 (act endangering life) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and Section 7 of the Criminal Law Amendment Act against nine identified and 10 unidentified persons for obstructing government work. The police arrested Ravi Bhardwaj (38) and six women from Molnapur Talgaon. Teams are deployed to nab the remaining accused.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions in the area over drainage rights and government intervention. Authorities have assured strict action against those responsible for the attack.
About the Author: Rajeev Dikshit reports from Varanasi, covering all beats across 10 districts in eastern Uttar Pradesh. With expertise in political, legal, crime, and developmental stories, he also explores religious, cultural, sports, lifestyle, and business topics, delivering comprehensive and insightful coverage.
