Daijiworld Media Network – Ranchi

Ranchi, Jul 1: Two individuals have been arrested in Jharkhand’s Godda district in connection with the violence that erupted during Hul Diwas celebrations in Bhognadih, Sahebganj, on June 30. The clash broke out between police personnel and villagers protesting the dismantling of a stage set up for the official function.

Godda Superintendent of Police Mukesh Kumar confirmed the arrests on Tuesday, identifying the accused as Sudhir Kumar from Jamshedpur and Ganesh Mandal from Odisha. Illegal arms and other items were reportedly seized from their possession.

According to police, the duo had been active in the Sahebganj region since June 20, moving through Borio, Barhait, and Sahebganj areas, allegedly distributing sarees, dhotis, and cash to provoke unrest ahead of Hul Diwas. “An FIR has been lodged in Sahebganj, and we were later alerted about their movement in Godda,” SP Kumar said.

One of the accused is allegedly linked to a senior political leader in Jharkhand. “We are in the process of verifying the political connections,” Kumar added.

The violence unfolded after officials reportedly dismantled a stage erected for the Hul Diwas event, triggering outrage among villagers. Protesters armed with bows and arrows clashed with police, prompting security personnel to resort to tear gas and mild lathi-charge. Several policemen sustained injuries in the confrontation.

Hul Diwas is observed every year on June 30 in Bhognadih, the birthplace of tribal freedom fighters Sido and Kanhu Murmu, who led the Santhal rebellion against British rule and oppressive landlords in 1855–56.