Protests Erupt in Seraikela Over JBKSS Leader’s Arrest

JBKSS Leader’s Arrest Sparks Outrage in Seraikela, Effigies Burned

The arrest of Jharkhandi Bhasha Khatian Sangharsh Samiti leader leads to demonstrations in Seraikela.

SERAIKELA – The Adityapur police of Seraikela Kharsawan district have arrested Prem Mardi, a leader of the Jharkhandi Bhasha Khatian Sangharsh Samiti (JBKSS).

Mardi was taken into custody late Wednesday night on charges of instigating villagers and an attempted murder case in Hathiyadih.

Following his arrest, JBKSS leaders and supporters expressed their anger by burning effigies of Minister Champai Soren and the district administration.

The protests, which took place late at night on the streets of Seraikela, included slogans against the government and the minister.

The backdrop of this unrest involves ongoing construction by various companies on land acquired by JIADA in Hathiyadih, including projects like Jamuna Auto and Netaji Subhash Medical College Hospital.

Despite several rounds of talks, villagers have continued their protests, which have recently turned violent.

Two days prior, villagers assaulted a security guard at the under-construction Netaji Subhash Medical College Hospital.

JBKSS leaders Prem Mardi and Tarun Mahato have been forefront in these protests.

Following recent violent incidents, the administration adopted a strict stance, leading to the arrest of 21 villagers and sending them to judicial custody.

While Mardi has been arrested, Tarun Mahato remains at large, although he was spotted during the effigy burning.

Mardi, claiming to be wrongfully implicated, insists his support for the villagers was constitutional.

He mentioned attempts to mediate with the Governor and authorities, which allegedly went unheard.

The police and administrative officials in Seraikela have heightened their vigilance in response to JBKSS’s opposition.

At the time of reporting, the protests by JBKSS members and supporters are ongoing.