Hazaribag: Tension gripped the Barkagaon area of Hazaribag district on Tuesday after a group of unidentified individuals allegedly stormed the office of BGR Infra Mining, the mine developer and operator for the Badam coal project, and carried out large-scale vandalism. Police confirmed that one person has been arrested in connection with the incident, and efforts are ongoing to identify the other attackers.
Incident Details
According to police, the incident occurred around 5 am when a group of people entered the company's campus and damaged office furniture, doors, windows, administrative cabins, and other equipment. No injuries were reported, though the company suffered significant losses.
Barkagaon police station officer in-charge Deepak Singh stated, “A group of unidentified people reached the company office in the morning, carried out vandalism, and fled from the spot. We have arrested one person. Others involved in the attack will be identified soon, and necessary legal action will be taken against them.”
Investigation Underway
Police teams arrived at the scene shortly after being alerted and have launched a probe. CCTV footage from the area is being examined, and locals are being questioned to identify those involved, the OC added.
The incident comes amid sustained opposition to the Badam coal project by some local raiyats over issues such as land acquisition, displacement, compensation, and rehabilitation. While the attack is being linked to the ongoing protests, police said that all angles are being examined.
Sub-divisional police officer (SDPO) Amit Anand also visited the site to assess the situation. Security has been tightened in the area to prevent further escalation, officers said.
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About the Author
Vishvendu Jaipuriar covers Hazaribag and Chatra districts, focusing on crime, politics, and human interest stories. He covered the programs of prominent national and regional leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi during their visits to Hazaribag/Chatra. He also covered the NEET-UG 2024 paper leak case in depth with a focus on Hazaribag as a key epicenter.
