Ranchi: The administrative action to remove encroachment from HEC land in Ranchi turned into a protest and commotion on Wednesday. A district administration team arrived in the Harmu Bypass Road area with a large number of JCBs and bulldozers to remove the encroachment. Residents of the settlement started opposing the action even before it began.

A crowd of local residents came in front of the JCBs and bulldozers. Some people sat in front of the machines, while several others climbed onto a JCB to protest. Due to the protesters’ stance, the administrative action was affected for some time.

It is being reported that during the protest, people also demonstrated on the road and blocked the route. The situation between the administrative team and the protesting people became more tense when a situation of pushing and confrontation developed between the two sides.

During this, a youth present in the crowd allegedly assaulted the Argora Circle Officer (CO) and punched him. Following the incident, administrative officials and police personnel present at the spot took strict measures to control the situation.

After the administration used mild force, the protesters were removed from the spot and the crowd was dispersed. Security arrangements were increased in the area following the incident in view of the tense situation.

The issue of encroachment on HEC land has been a challenge for the administration for a long time. During the encroachment removal drive, the protest by local residents also led to a law-and-order situation. The area remained tense and active for a considerable time amid the administrative action and protest.

At present, the administration is gathering information about the entire incident. The identification of the person who allegedly assaulted the officer during the encroachment removal drive and other aspects related to the incident are also being investigated.