By Vishwapati
Patna: Patna witnessed a violent clash on Wednesday during an anti-encroachment drive carried out by a joint team of the Patna Municipal Corporation, police, and district administration in the Digha police station area. Local shopkeepers, particularly chicken sellers, strongly opposed the action and resorted to stone-pelting, injuring several government officials, including a magistrate.
The police had to intervene swiftly to bring the situation under control, leading to the detention of several individuals.
Encroachment Removal Sparks Protest
The Municipal Corporation and district administration launched the anti-encroachment drive in Digha to remove unauthorised roadside shops that were obstructing traffic. Shopkeepers in the area had been previously served notices instructing them to vacate the space, but as they failed to comply within the stipulated time, the authorities proceeded with direct action.
As bulldozers and other machinery began clearing illegal structures, tensions escalated. Local shopkeepers, fearing the loss of their livelihoods, protested vehemently. The demonstration soon turned violent, with some individuals hurling stones at the police and administrative officials, injuring several policemen, municipal employees, and magistrates.
Police Response and Investigation Underway
The stone-pelting erupted suddenly, leaving the administrative team unprepared. Officials immediately summoned additional police forces, who managed to restore order and detain several protesters. Following the incident, the district administration lodged a formal complaint at Digha police station. A case has been registered against unidentified individuals, and an investigation is underway.
Authorities are scrutinising CCTV footage and mobile videos to identify the culprits responsible for the violence. The Patna administration has reiterated that illegal encroachments will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Officials emphasised that such violent incidents disrupt law and order, warning that strict action will be taken against those involved.
Conflicting Perspectives
Local shopkeepers argue that they have been running their businesses in the area for years and claim that the administration acted abruptly, without providing sufficient time for relocation. However, officials maintain that multiple notices were issued, which the shopkeepers repeatedly ignored.
This incident highlights the ongoing conflict between administrative enforcement and public livelihoods. While encroachment removal is necessary for maintaining urban order and smooth traffic flow, it should be implemented with careful planning. Authorities must consider offering alternative locations to affected shopkeepers to mitigate economic hardship. At the same time, citizens should adhere to legal procedures and avoid resorting to violence in the name of protest.
- The author, Vishwapati, is a senior journalist based in Patna. He may be contacted at vishwapati25@gmail.com