Chhattisgarh Government Suspends SDM Following Tribal Death in Alleged Bauxite Mining Assault
In a significant administrative move, the Chhattisgarh government has suspended Karun Dahariya, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Kusmi in Balrampur district. This action comes amid intense pressure from protesters who staged a demonstration with the mortal remains of a tribal villager, who was allegedly beaten to death over suspicions of illegal bauxite mining.
Immediate Action After Arrest and Protests
The suspension order was issued on Wednesday, just two days after Dahariya was arrested and remanded to jail in connection with the incident. According to the official directive, Dahariya will remain attached to the Surguja divisional commissioner's office in Ambikapur during the suspension period. This swift response followed widespread outrage and political mobilization in the region.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The incident occurred on the intervening night of February 15 and 16 in Hanspur village, located within the Kusmi block. Reports indicate that SDM Karun Dahariya, accompanied by three civilians, allegedly intercepted three villagers as they were returning from their fields. The group is accused of assaulting the villagers on suspicion of their involvement in illegal bauxite mining activities.
The victims of this assault have been identified as:
- Ram Naresh Ram (aged 60 or 62)
- Ajit Oraon (60)
- Akash Agariya (20)
All three were initially taken to the Kusmi Community Health Centre for medical attention. Tragically, Ram Naresh Ram later succumbed to his injuries during treatment, escalating the situation into a major controversy.
Legal Proceedings and Community Response
Based on statements provided by the injured survivors, police registered a formal case at the Rajpur police station. The case names SDM Karun Dahariya and his three associates as the accused. This legal action has triggered massive political and community mobilization throughout the Kusmi region, with various groups demanding justice for the victims.
According to local sources, the body of the deceased tribal villager was handed over to his family late on Tuesday. This followed a daylong protest organized by the Sarv Adivasi Samaj and the Congress party. Due to the body beginning to decompose, the cremation was conducted the same night, adding urgency to the community's demands for accountability.
Ongoing Medical Treatment and Investigation
Meanwhile, the two other assault victims, Ajit Oraon and Akash Agariya, continue to undergo treatment at the Kusmi health facility. Their condition remains under medical supervision as the investigation into the incident progresses. The case has highlighted tensions surrounding mining activities in tribal areas and raised questions about administrative conduct in such disputes.
The suspension of SDM Karun Dahariya represents a critical step in addressing the allegations, but community leaders and political figures continue to call for a thorough investigation and appropriate legal action against all those responsible for the assault and subsequent death.
