Indore: A violent clash took place in Indore on Wednesday in which Bajrang Dal workers attacked municipal corporation employees who were carrying out an anti-encroachment operation.
The workers, who were tasked with removing illegal cow shelters and transporting stray cattle, faced resistance from the activists. Several vehicles were vandalised whereas several civic staff workers were injured in the incident.
What led to violence?
The incident took place around 6.30 am in Satyadev Nagar and Datt Nagar areas. The operation, initiated by Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC), aimed to remove unauthorized shelters that had been constructed without permission.
Deputy Commissioner of IMC, Lata Agrawal, said that the action was taken following complaints about these shelters and with the approval of the Municipal Commissioner. She said that municipal vehicles were used to transport stray cattle to a designated shelter, Hatod Gaushala.
However, members of Bajrang Dal arrived at the spot, protesting against the operation. The situation quickly escalated when municipal workers attempted to explain the purpose of the operation. The confrontation turned violent, with Bajrang Dal activists vandalizing around five municipal vehicles and physically assaulting the employees.
Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) member Pappu Gochale defended the Bajrang Dal’s actions, accusing the municipal workers of mistreating the cattle. He claimed that the workers had used excessive force while loading 15-20 animals into vehicles that were meant to carry only seven. Gochale further said that Bajrang Dal members responded to the alleged mistreatment of animals in kind.
Despite the chaos, municipal authorities continued with the operation under police protection. According to police officer Vijay Singh Sisodia, 13 animals were successfully transported to the Hatod Gaushala with the help of a 10-member police force.
Municipal commissioner meets injured at hospital
Municipal commissioner Shivam Verma visited the injured workers at Shelby Hospital and assured them of full support. He also met protesting municipal employees, who demanded action against Bajrang Dal members for obstructing official duties and assaulting the staff. The workers warned of a strike if no action was taken.
The police have registered a case against three Bajrang Dal workers and others involved in the vandalism and assault.
