Disputes following a battery theft escalate into community-wide tensions in Katras, leading to the implementation of Section 144 and numerous arrests.
DHANBAD – Tensions have risen in Katras between two communities, culminating in the enforcement of prohibitory orders within Kailudih, Chhatabad, Akashkinari of the Baghmara area of Dhanbad..
SDM Prem Kumar Tiwari has issued these orders throughout the entire region to maintain peace.
Under these orders, gatherings of five or more individuals, along with demonstrations, usage of loudspeakers, and possession of weapons or firearms are prohibited.
In relation to this dispute, 34 individuals have been taken into custody thus far.
Triggering Incident: Theft of a Battery Charger
This conflict originated with the theft of an individual’s auto battery charger on a Thursday night in Katras’ Kailudih Khatal.
Yadav pointed fingers at members of another community, which sparked a communal dispute.
The other community retaliated with bombing in Kailudih Khatal, ransacking eight homes.
The person whose battery was stolen claims that the theft was committed by a person from another community and his accomplices, as revealed by CCTV footage.
Upon confronting that person, Yadav and his son were reportedly attacked by the group.
Heavy Police Presence
In light of this event, a significant police force has been deployed in the area since Friday.
Rural SP Rishma Rameshan conducted patrols in Kailudih, Akash Kinari Basti, and Chattabad area on Friday night.
This police action has managed to quell the conflict, although Section 144 remains in effect.
The police have been diligent in dealing with any troublemakers, detaining over a dozen people within 24 hours.
Tensions on Both Sides
Following the violent clash after the battery charger theft, the area was quiet on Saturday.
Additional police force from Baghmara subdivision and headquarters is stationed in the area.
34 individuals from both sides have been arrested since late Friday and are expected to be jailed on Saturday.
With Section 144 in effect, the area has seen sparse activity, with people avoiding arrest by fleeing.
The situation remains tense on both sides, which has necessitated the presence of firefighting vehicles near Chattabad.
Baghmara SDPO Nisha Murmu is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating the police response.
Other officials, including Katras Circle Inspector PK Jha and Thanedar Randhir Singh, are also present on the scene.
