Hazaribagh, June 16: A large group of unidentified individuals attacked the site office of BGR Infra Mining, which is working on NTPC’s Badam coal mining project in Hazaribagh district, Jharkhand, early Tuesday morning. This incident has created a tense atmosphere in the area. Police and administrative teams have arrived to control the situation. The attack reportedly occurred around 5 AM.
The assault caused significant damage to the office’s property and structures. Fortunately, there are no reports of injuries among the staff. The Badam coal project is an NTPC initiative, with BGR Infra Mining serving as the mine developer and operator (MDO). Since the project’s inception, disputes have arisen between the local villagers and the company management over issues such as land acquisition, displacement, rehabilitation, compensation, and employment for local residents.
According to local sources, tensions had escalated in recent days. Just days prior, villagers affected by the project had surrounded company officials, leading to police intervention to ensure their safe exit. Following a complaint from the company regarding this incident, an FIR was filed against hundreds of villagers, resulting in the arrest of several individuals.
It is reported that the discontent over these actions contributed to the large gathering at the company’s site office on Tuesday morning. The crowd quickly began vandalizing the premises, damaging doors, windows, furniture, and other items. Chaos ensued among the employees and officials present, prompting many to flee to safety. Upon receiving the news, police from the Barkagaon station arrived to assess the situation.
Station Officer Deepak Singh confirmed that a mob had vandalized the office. The police are reviewing CCTV footage from the area and questioning locals to identify the attackers.
Authorities stated that a thorough investigation is underway, considering all aspects of the case, including project opposition, recent police actions, and other potential causes. Senior officials, including the local SDPO, have also visited the site to evaluate the situation.
Tensions remain high in the project area following the incident. Additional police forces have been deployed, and the administration is monitoring the situation closely. The police have asserted that they will identify those involved and take legal action promptly.
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