Ranchi Demolition Drive Ignites Widespread Protests Over Tribal Land Ownership Dispute
Tension gripped the Jay Prakash Nagar area under Sukhdeonagar police station limits in Ranchi on Wednesday, as residents staged a massive demonstration against the demolition of multiple houses. The properties were allegedly constructed on a 47-decimal plot of tribal land, sparking a fierce confrontation between locals and authorities.
High Court Directive Triggers Eviction Drive
The district administration executed the demolition following a strict directive from the Jharkhand High Court. Over Tuesday and Wednesday, a total of 11 houses were bulldozed as part of the eviction drive. This action has left many families displaced and fueled significant public outrage.
Protesting locals took to Ratu Road in large numbers, burning tyres and blocking traffic to voice their dissent. They asserted that their families have resided in the area for approximately three decades, with some claiming ancestral connections dating back 60-70 years.
Residents Allege Deception and Historical Claims
One anonymous protester explained, "Our ancestors purchased this land decades ago, even though it was originally tribal land. We built our homes here with our hard-earned savings and have lived peacefully for generations. Now, Mahadev Oraon, a second-generation owner, is asserting his ownership rights."
The residents further alleged that despite making payments to Oraon in exchange for the land, he pursued legal action, resulting in the court-ordered demolitions. Another local added, "He promised not to take any action after we paid him, but we feel utterly deceived by his actions."
Police and Administration Uphold Court Order
Despite the vehement protests and emotional appeals from residents, the district administration proceeded with the eviction. Sukhdeonagar police station officer-in-charge Sunil Kumar Kushwaha clarified, "We are strictly adhering to the High Court's order, which declared the houses illegal and mandated clearance by February 20."
Kushwaha confirmed that a total of 14 houses are slated for demolition to fully clear the contested land. He emphasized, "The court order establishes Mahadev Oraon as the legitimate owner of the property. Although locals attempted to obstruct the process, our police teams managed the situation effectively, preventing any untoward incidents."
Broader Implications and Community Unrest
The demolition drive has highlighted deep-seated issues surrounding land ownership, tribal rights, and urban development in Jharkhand. The protest underscores the community's frustration over perceived injustice and the disruption of their longstanding livelihoods.
As the situation remains volatile, authorities continue to monitor the area to maintain law and order. The incident raises critical questions about the balance between legal enforcement and the humanitarian concerns of displaced residents.
