Minister’s Alleged Land Grab Sparks Protest in Jamshedpur

Sarva Daliya Jan Ekta Manch demands action against Banna Gupta for alleged road encroachment

Civic group accuses Health Minister of illegally occupying public road, threatens larger demonstrations if demands unmet.

JAMSHEDPUR – The Sarva Daliya Jan Ekta Manch has once again raised concerns over alleged road encroachment by state Health Minister Banna Gupta, staging a protest outside the Jamshedpur AC’s office on Thursday.

Demonstrators demanded immediate action against the minister for what they claim is illegal occupation of public land.

Sanjeev Acharya, coordinator of the Manch, alleged that Gupta has annexed a longstanding public road adjacent to his Tata Steel-allotted quarters in Kadma.

"When we previously opposed this encroachment, we faced violent retaliation," Acharya stated, claiming no legal action followed the reported attack.

The disputed road reportedly served over 150,000 residents, particularly school children, before its alleged closure.

Protesters argue the road’s blockage has exacerbated traffic congestion on main thoroughfares.

"This is our third reminder to authorities," Acharya warned, threatening larger street demonstrations if administrative action isn’t taken.

The Manch claims the minister’s actions have inconvenienced thousands of residents and schoolchildren who previously used the road.

Local authorities have yet to comment on the allegations or the demands made by the protesters.

This incident highlights growing tensions between civil society groups and public officials over land use and infrastructure issues in Jamshedpur.

As the protest concluded, participants vowed to escalate their actions if their demands for investigation and resolution are not met promptly.

The controversy raises questions about the balance between official privileges and public infrastructure needs in rapidly growing urban areas.