A heated verbal exchange took place on Sunday between Sadar circle officer (CO) Ashutosh Kumar and former Barkgaon MLA Yogendra Saw over an alleged attempt to encroach upon 50 decimals of Khas Mahal (government) land at Hurhuru under Cantonment Mouza.
Details of the Incident
Officials reported that the plot was concealed using bamboo, sticks, and leaves to hide the activity from the main road. Sand was dumped outside, and a heavy vehicle was parked nearby, allegedly to mask the work inside. Preparations for digging pits were reportedly underway.
CO's Objection
The CO objected to the alleged encroachment and insisted that the illegal fencing be removed. He emphasized the need to protect government property.
Former MLA's Response
Objecting to the CO's stance, Saw claimed he had obtained a power of attorney from Mujibur Rahman, the original owner of the land. He urged officials to first verify documents and conduct proper measurement. Saw argued that the Khas Mahal land had been revoked or resumed by the government, and a renewal petition was pending before the Khas Mahal officer. Until official resumption, he contended, it could not be treated as government property.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions over land rights and encroachment in the region.
