Tribal Protest Erupts: Lathi Charge Sparks Kolhan Shutdown

Following a lathi charge on tribal protesters in Chaibasa, the BJP orchestrated a ‘Kolhan Bandh’ across West Singhbhum on Wednesday, bringing day-to-day activities to a standstill. The protest stemmed from an incident on Monday night where a violent clash erupted near the residence of Transport Minister Deepak Birua. Protesters demanding a ‘no entry’ rule on NH-220 and the Chaibasa bypass road clashed with police. The situation escalated, forcing authorities to resort to lathi charges and tear gas. The ensuing violence saw 11 police personnel, including an SDPО, and several agitators injured. Police have registered an FIR against 74 individuals and 500 unknown persons, leading to the arrest of 15, including five women.