A tragic incident in Jharkhand's Dumka district has claimed the life of a young student and ignited public outrage against illegal sand mining. A 15-year-old girl was fatally run over by an overloaded sand-laden tractor on Tuesday morning, leading to protests and road blockades by angry locals.
Details of the Heartbreaking Incident
The victim, identified as Arti Kumari, was a Class 10 student cycling to school around 8 am near Sitpadadi village. According to eyewitness accounts, a speeding tractor, heavily laden with sand, hit her. A local resident described the harrowing scene, stating he saw the tractor crushing the girl under its wheels. The driver reportedly abandoned the vehicle and fled from the spot immediately after the accident.
Public Outcry and Allegations of Negligence
The incident triggered immediate and intense protests from fellow students and villagers. They blocked the road, raising slogans against the district administration, which they accused of negligence in curbing the illegal transportation of sand. The protest was not just about the accident but pointed to a larger, systemic issue.
Protesters made serious allegations, calling the incident a murder by the sand syndicate engaged in looting minerals. They claimed these operations are patronised by the administration and local representatives. Another protestor added that illegal sand mining and transportation continue unabated while the police and administration remain mute spectators.
Administration's Response and Ongoing Probe
Dumka circle officer Amar Kumar faced a challenging situation as he tried to pacify the protestors throughout the day. The blockade was finally cleared in the evening after authorities gave an assurance of suitable legal action against both the tractor owner and the absconding driver.
Speaking about the case, the Circle Officer confirmed that an FIR has been lodged and an investigation is underway. A key aspect of the probe will be to ascertain whether the sand loaded on the vehicle was procured legally or not. The case has put a spotlight on the persistent issue of illegal sand mining in the region.
