Fracas Over Naming Bistupur Roundabout After Jaipal Singh Munda

Birsa Seva Dal Protests, Police Responds With Force in Bistupur

Key Points:

• Police remove Jaipal Singh Munda’s stone plaque at Bistupur roundabout.
• Birsa Seva Dal protests, alleges company’s involvement.
• Police resort to lathi-charge, detaining several protesters.

JAMSHEDPUR – The controversy over the naming of Bistupur roundabout after Jaipal Singh Munda escalated as a group of members of Birsa Seva Dal tussled with local authorities. At night, the Bistupur police removed a stone plaque installed earlier in the day by the Birsa Seva Dal and members. The plaque honored Jaipal Singh Munda, a prominent leader and inspiration for the tribal population.

Police Action and Protest Escalation

In response, members of the Birsa Seva Dal and other tribal organizations gathered at the roundabout to protest against the removal. They accused the district administration of acting under Tata Steel’s influence. The situation intensified when the Bistupur police resorted to a lathi-charge to disperse the protesters. Several members of the Birsa Seva Dal were reportedly detained.

Tribute to Jaipal Singh Munda

The Birsa Seva Dal emphasized that the naming of the roundabout was a tribute to Jaipal Singh Munda, a revered tribal leader known for his role in the Indian Constitution’s drafting and leading India to a hockey gold medal. “Despite his significant contributions, Jaipal Singh Munda has not been given the recognition he deserves,” said a leader of Birsa Seva Dal.

Allegations

Protesters claimed that the actions of the district administration were influenced by a company, leading to the forcible removal of the plaque. “We will not back down. This is a fight for our identity and the honor of our great leader,” a Birsa Seva Dal leader stated.

The situation remains tense as Birsa Seva Dal members plan their next course of action in response to the police’s intervention.