Daijiworld Media Network - Hazaribagh
Hazaribagh, Jun 16: Tension gripped Jharkhand’s Hazaribagh district on Tuesday after a large crowd allegedly ransacked the site office of a mining infrastructure company engaged in operations for NTPC’s Badam coal mining project.
The incident occurred around 5 a.m., when a group of people stormed the premises and damaged office infrastructure, causing extensive destruction to property. Authorities, however, confirmed that no employees were injured in the incident.
Police teams were immediately deployed to the area to restore order and prevent any further escalation.
The Badam coal block is owned by NTPC, while mining activities are being carried out by a private company functioning as the Mine Developer and Operator (MDO). The project has witnessed prolonged disputes between villagers and company representatives over issues such as land acquisition, rehabilitation, displacement, compensation, and employment opportunities for local residents.
According to local sources, tensions had intensified in recent weeks after villagers affected by the project staged a protest and allegedly confined company officials for several hours. The officials were later rescued following police intervention.
Subsequently, the company filed a complaint leading to the registration of an FIR against hundreds of villagers, with several arrests made thereafter. The police action reportedly heightened anger among residents.
On Tuesday morning, a large number of people gathered outside the company's office and allegedly launched an attack on the premises. Doors, windows, furniture and other office assets were damaged during the vandalism, creating panic among employees and officials, many of whom moved to safer locations.
Personnel from Barkagaon police station reached the site shortly after receiving information about the incident and began assessing the situation.
Barkagaon police station in-charge Deepak Singh said unidentified individuals were involved in the attack. Investigators are now examining CCTV footage from the premises and questioning local residents to identify those responsible.
Officials said the probe will consider all possible factors, including ongoing protests linked to the project, recent police action, and other underlying issues that may have contributed to the unrest.
Senior administrative officers, including the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO), also visited the site to review the security situation.
Authorities have deployed additional police personnel in the project area, where tension continues to persist. The administration said strict action will be taken against those found involved in the vandalism after their identities are established.