Violence Erupts in Muzaffarpur as Anti-Encroachment Drive Sparks Clash with Villagers
A tense and violent confrontation broke out in the Sikandarpur police station area of Muzaffarpur district on Tuesday, marking the fourth day of a contentious anti-encroachment operation. The clash pitted protesting villagers against an official demolition team, escalating into chaos on Lakdi Dhai Bandh Road.
Protesters Demand Rehabilitation as Demolitions Proceed
Hundreds of local residents gathered to vehemently oppose the demolition of their homes and other structures. The protesters leveled serious accusations against the district administration, alleging discriminatory action. They claimed that long-time residents were being forcibly evicted without any provision for alternative housing or a concrete rehabilitation plan, leaving families in dire straits.
As emotions ran high, a heated dispute erupted not only with authorities but also within the community itself. A smaller group of villagers expressed support for the administration's efforts to clear what they described as illegally encroached land. This internal disagreement quickly fueled the already volatile atmosphere.
Road Blockade and Escalating Violence
The situation deteriorated rapidly when arguments turned physical. Protesters began pelting stones, leading to widespread scuffles. In a dramatic act of defiance, angry villagers set fire to tyres and used them to block the main road. This complete traffic blockade brought vehicular movement to a standstill, causing significant inconvenience to commuters and spreading disorder throughout the surrounding localities.
Police forces and senior administrative officials rushed to the scene in an urgent bid to restore order. Authorities attempted to pacify the agitated crowd through dialogue and verbal assurances. However, the protesters remained resolute and adamant in their demands. They repeatedly insisted on seeing a formal, concrete rehabilitation plan before allowing any further demolition activities to proceed.
Administration Cites Court Order, Demolishes 90 Structures
The district administration defended its actions, stating unequivocally that the anti-encroachment operation was being carried out in strict compliance with a court order. Officials emphasized that the drive's sole objective was to remove illegal encroachments from government and public land to facilitate planned development and restore civic order. They stressed that the action was not directed against any particular community or group.
Revenue officer Karun Karan provided specific details, confirming that illegal 'pucca' houses constructed on government land were demolished. "A total of 90 houses were demolished," Karan stated. "Despite being issued notices twice, the encroachment was not removed. Action was taken thereafter as per the legal mandate."
The standoff highlights the deep-seated tensions between development drives and the immediate humanitarian concerns of displaced residents, underscoring the critical need for balanced policy implementation that includes robust rehabilitation frameworks.
