Why Did Police Use Lathi Charge on Villagers Protesting SAIL’s Coal Project?
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Synopsis
In a shocking turn of events, Dhanbad's Asanbani village witnessed a lathi charge by police against villagers protesting a coal project by SAIL. With tensions high and injuries reported, the clash raises critical questions about land acquisition and community rights.
Key Takeaways
- Police used lathi charge against protesting villagers in Dhanbad.
- 10 villagers injured, with one woman in critical condition.
- Protests were against SAIL's Tasra coal project.
- Officials claim most landowners accepted compensation.
- The situation has created a tense environment in the region.
Dhanbad, July 11 (NationPress) Tensions escalated in Asanbani village of Dhanbad on Friday as law enforcement executed a lathi charge to disperse demonstrators opposing the initiation of the Tasra opencast coal project by the Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL).
At least 10 villagers, including numerous women, sustained injuries during the confrontation. One woman's condition is reported to be critical.
The unrest surged when a SAIL team arrived on-site with five to six JCB machines for land demarcation and leveling efforts.
Hundreds of individuals from Asanbani, Kalipur, and Sarisakundi villages in the Baliapur block convened to resist the initiative, pledging to challenge any attempts to commence the project.
“We will give our lives, but not our land,” echoed the protesters, alleging that SAIL was forcibly seizing their farmland, critical for their livelihoods.
As villagers attempted to obstruct the machines, a clash erupted between them and the police. The situation intensified rapidly, leading to police employing lathis to clear the crowd, causing a stampede-like scenario and resulting in multiple injuries among the villagers. The injured are currently receiving treatment in local hospitals.
The administration justified the police response, asserting that only moderate force was applied to remove those unlawfully obstructing work on legally acquired land.
Official sources indicate that approximately 42 acres of land from the three villages was acquired for the coal project’s expansion. SAIL management contends that over 85 percent of the affected landowners accepted compensation and a fully equipped township has been established for their rehabilitation.
SAIL officials claimed that only a small faction is opposing the project. They also reported that project drivers faced assault attempts when trying to enter the area a few days prior.
Nonetheless, the ongoing standoff has fostered a tense environment in the region.
Point of View
We acknowledge the complex dynamics of land use and community rights in India. It's vital to balance development needs with the rights of local populations. The events in Dhanbad highlight the necessity for dialogue and transparency between corporations and communities to ensure equitable solutions.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the protests in Dhanbad?
The protests were triggered by the commencement of the Tasra opencast coal project by SAIL, which villagers believe threatens their farmland.
How many villagers were injured during the police action?
At least 10 villagers, including several women, were injured, with one woman reported to be in critical condition.
What is SAIL's stance on the protests?
SAIL claims that over 85 percent of affected landowners accepted compensation and that only a small number of individuals are opposing the project.
How has the local administration justified the police actions?
The local administration stated that only mild force was utilized to remove individuals unlawfully obstructing work on legally acquired land.
What are the implications of this incident for land rights in India?
This incident underscores the ongoing conflict between development projects and the rights of local communities, highlighting the need for more transparent negotiations and equitable solutions.
