Nainital Land Dispute Escalates into Violent Shootout, Multiple FIRs Registered
In a significant development from Uttarakhand's Nainital district, six individuals have been formally charged in connection with the Panjanhedi shootout case that occurred under the jurisdiction of the Kankhal police station. The accused include a prominent party functionary and a district panchayat vice-president, highlighting the serious nature of the incident that has sent shockwaves through the region.
Complaint Alleges Illegal Plotting and Threats from Property Mafia
The First Information Report (FIR) was registered against Amit Chauhan and five others based on a detailed complaint filed by Deepshikha, the wife of social activist Atul Chauhan. In her statement, Deepshikha made serious allegations, claiming that Amit Chauhan was actively involved in illegal plotting activities in the area by systematically cutting orchards and agricultural land without proper authorization.
She further revealed that her husband had previously approached both the local administration and the court regarding these alleged encroachments. Due to the sensitive nature of the case and repeated threats from what she described as the "property mafia," Atul Chauhan had also sought police protection to ensure his safety while pursuing legal action against the encroachments.
Violent Clash During Land Verification Process
According to the official complaint, revenue department officials had scheduled a land verification at the disputed site for Wednesday. When Atul Chauhan arrived as requested and stepped out of his vehicle, he was allegedly ambushed by Amit Chauhan and his associates. The attackers reportedly used sticks and other weapons to assault him, with the shocking incident occurring in the presence of revenue officials who were there to conduct the official verification.
Police have registered the case against the six accused under specific sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Sections 115(2), 119(2), 119(3) and 351(2) and (3), which cover various offenses related to violence and criminal intimidation.
Parallel Case Registered Against Social Activist and Associates
In a parallel development that adds complexity to the situation, police have also registered a separate case against six individuals including social activist Atul Chauhan, his nephew, and seer Brahmachari Sudhanand from the social organization Matri Sadan. These individuals face charges of attempt to murder in connection with the same violent incident.
City Circle Officer SS Negi confirmed that while one case was registered based on Deepshikha's complaint, an initial inquiry is currently underway into another complaint submitted by representatives of Matri Sadan. The officer revealed that Atul Chauhan had surrendered at the Kankhal police station shortly after the shooting incident, claiming he had opened fire in self-defense during the confrontation.
Injuries and Political Fallout
The violent clash resulted in two individuals sustaining bullet injuries, including the younger brother of main accused Amit Chauhan. The incident has sparked significant political and social repercussions in the region.
Meanwhile, Swami Shivanand Saraswati, the head of Matri Sadan, has announced plans for an indefinite fast beginning Saturday. This protest action is specifically in response to the FIR filed against Brahmachari Sudhanand, indicating the deepening tensions surrounding the case. Authorities have ordered a comprehensive probe into all aspects of the incident to determine the complete sequence of events and assign appropriate responsibility.
