Funeral Route Dispute in Gumla Sparks Tension and Highway Blockade
In a tense incident in Gumla district, Jharkhand, the body of a woman was cremated at the Sithio river ghat on Friday under heightened security measures. The situation escalated when a dispute erupted between two groups over the designated funeral route, leading to significant disruptions and requiring administrative intervention.
Obstruction of Funeral Procession Triggers Protest
The controversy began as the funeral procession of Punia Devi, a resident of Sithio village, was en route to the crematorium. Members of the Sarna community from Serenghatu village allegedly obstructed the procession, refusing to allow the body to pass through their village. This unexpected halt created immediate friction between the communities involved.
In response to the obstruction, residents of Sithio village took to the streets in protest. They blocked the Lohardaga–Bero state highway, a crucial transportation artery in the region. This act of civil disobedience highlighted the depth of the community's frustration and brought the issue to the forefront of local attention.
Administrative and Police Intervention Restores Order
The escalating situation prompted swift action from district authorities. Lohardaga Deputy Commissioner Kumar Tarachand, Superintendent of Police Sadique Anwar Rizvi, and Sub-Divisional Officer Amit Kumar, along with a contingent of police personnel, intervened directly. Their presence was crucial in de-escalating tensions and ensuring the funeral could proceed.
Through careful negotiation and firm supervision, the officials managed to facilitate the funeral procession along the originally planned route. The last rites for Punia Devi were ultimately performed under the direct supervision of the district administration, with security personnel maintaining a vigilant watch throughout the ceremony.
Authorities Maintain Vigilance Post-Resolution
Following the resolution of the immediate crisis, Deputy Commissioner Kumar Tarachand provided reassurance about the current state of affairs. "The situation is fully under control, though we are keeping a close watch," he stated, emphasizing the administration's ongoing commitment to maintaining peace in the area.
This incident underscores the delicate social dynamics that can sometimes surface during community events in rural Jharkhand. The prompt response by local authorities prevented what could have developed into a more serious confrontation, demonstrating the importance of administrative oversight in resolving inter-community disputes.
