Why Did Maoists Torch Mining Vehicles in Hazaribagh?

Synopsis
In a shocking incident in Hazaribagh, armed militants from the Tritiya Sammelan Prastuti Committee (TSPC) set fire to BGR Mining vehicles, injuring a youth. This attack has raised alarms about safety in the region. What does this mean for local mining operations? Read on for a detailed report.
Key Takeaways
- Maoist violence poses significant risks to local communities and economic activities.
- Authorities are taking steps to enhance security in the region.
- The TSPC's threats highlight the ongoing challenges faced by mining companies.
- Community safety remains a top concern for local residents and workers.
- Continued monitoring of the situation is essential for public safety.
Hazaribagh, June 2 (NationPress) Armed militants from the proscribed group Tritiya Sammelan Prastuti Committee (TSPC) set ablaze two vehicles belonging to BGR Mining Company and unleashed random gunfire in Jharkhand's Hazaribagh district on Sunday night. This violent act left one youth injured and sent shockwaves through the local community, according to officials on Monday.
The incident unfolded near Pagar-Pandu village within the jurisdiction of Keredari police station. BGR Mining is engaged in coal extraction as part of the KD (Khalari-Dakra) project under Central Coalfields Limited (CCL).
The militants specifically targeted the company's vehicles parked at the worksite before fleeing the scene after igniting the blaze.
Witnesses reported that the assailants, who were part of an armed group, fired indiscriminately before disappearing into the adjacent forests.
A young man caught in the crossfire suffered injuries and was promptly transported to the hospital for treatment, where his condition is currently stable.
Security forces discovered a pamphlet at the scene, allegedly issued by TSPC's sub-zonal commander, Kaushal.
The pamphlet cautioned NTPC, CCL, L&T, and other contractors against commencing any operations without obtaining prior 'permission' from the organization, threatening more severe repercussions should the warning be disregarded.
The TSPC claimed in the document that their actions are in support of local tribal communities and the broader public. They accused the government of harassing innocent villagers under the guise of anti-Maoist operations, framing their own actions as a fight against exploitation.
In response to the attack, police from the Pagar outpost, led by in-charge Vicky Thakur, arrived at the scene to initiate a search operation.
Increased patrolling has been implemented in the area, and an investigation is currently underway, with suspected individuals being interrogated.
This incident has instilled fear among workers involved in mining activities in Keredari and its surroundings.
Similar occurrences have been documented in recent weeks. In early May, Maoists set fire to six vehicles and two excavators at a mining site in Turisat village under the jurisdiction of Chandwa police station in Latehar district. Just a week ago, militants from the People's Liberation Front of India (PLFI) ignited two vehicles, including a road roller, participating in a road construction project in Rania area of Khunti district.