Truck Drivers Block Key Highway in Hazaribag Following Alleged Assault Near NTPC Coal Project
In a significant development in Hazaribag district, truck drivers staged a major road blockade on Wednesday, bringing traffic to a standstill on the crucial Keredari–Tandwa main road. The protest erupted in response to the alleged brutal assault of a heavy vehicle driver near the NTPC-owned Chatti Bariatu coal project in Keredari block, which occurred late Tuesday night.
Details of the Alleged Assault Incident
According to eyewitness accounts, the victim, identified as Umesh Mahto, was preparing to rest inside his vehicle when he was reportedly attacked by several individuals. The assailants, who were allegedly under the influence of alcohol, are said to have been participating in a protest led by former minister Yogendra Sao. They allegedly assaulted Mahto with sticks and rods, resulting in severe head injuries that necessitated his referral to Hazaribag for medical treatment.
The violent incident did not stop there – the group also reportedly damaged two vehicles at the scene, escalating tensions in the area. Umesh Mahto subsequently filed a formal complaint with the Keredari police station, prompting immediate law enforcement action.
Police Investigation and Arrests
Police teams from both Keredari and Pagar outposts swiftly responded to the situation, arresting two individuals in connection with the assault. During interrogation, the arrested men allegedly identified themselves as supporters of former minister Yogendra Sao. Law enforcement authorities have indicated that further arrests are likely as they continue to examine comprehensive CCTV footage from the area.
Dinesh Kumar Mandal, the officer in-charge of Keredari outpost, confirmed the developments, stating, "Some drivers were assaulted on Tuesday night. A case has been registered and CCTV footage is being analysed to identify all those involved." NTPC dispatch officer Diwakar Mishra added that the entire incident was captured on surveillance cameras installed in the vicinity, with additional witnesses present at the weighbridge facility.
Drivers' Association Demands and Ongoing Protest
The local drivers' association has raised serious concerns about the safety of mine workers in the region, alleging a pattern of assaults against their members. They have demanded immediate arrests of all perpetrators and enhanced security arrangements to prevent similar incidents in the future. The road blockade significantly disrupted vehicular movement for several hours, causing inconvenience to commuters and affecting local transportation.
Administrative officials reached the protest site and attempted to negotiate with the demonstrating drivers, urging them to lift the blockade. However, the drivers remained resolute in their stance, declaring that their agitation would continue until justice was delivered and adequate safety measures were implemented to protect workers in the area.
Political Dimension and Denial
The incident has taken a political turn with former minister Yogendra Sao denying any involvement of his supporters in the assault. In a statement addressing the allegations, Sao asserted, "Attempts are being made to malign a peaceful agitation carried out near Pagar Kantaghar led by me. I demand fair and transparent investigation using all available CCTV footage. Adequate police force should be deployed to maintain law and order at the protest site."
The situation remains tense in Hazaribag as authorities work to balance law enforcement actions with addressing the legitimate concerns of the truck drivers' community while ensuring minimal disruption to public life and transportation networks in the region.
