Sidhai: A long-simmering dispute over jhum (shifting cultivation) land in the Hejamara Baluyachhara area, under Sidhai police station, escalated into a serious incident after six rounds were allegedly fired at the site, prompting terrified residents to flee into the nearby forest for safety.
According to local residents, the dispute centres on 15 kani of jhum land previously held by the late Samprai Debbarma of the area. Locals Shankar, Robi, and Sunil Debbarma allegedly attempted to forcibly take possession of the land. Despite repeated attempts by residents to resolve the matter through dialogue, the accused reportedly called residents under the pretext of negotiation and assaulted them instead.
The situation took a dangerous turn when Shankar Debbarma allegedly entered the area after issuing prior threats and opened indiscriminate fire, with six rounds reportedly being shot near a residence at night. The incident triggered widespread panic, forcing several residents to seek shelter in the jungle out of fear for their lives.
Following the incident, residents of Baluyachhara filed a case at Sidhai police station against six individuals, including Shankar, Robi, Sunil, and Swapan Debbarma. Speaking to the media, affected residents alleged that continued police inactivity had allowed the dispute to escalate to such a dangerous level, despite earlier complaints and warnings.
Locals have demanded immediate police action, urging authorities to arrest the accused before any further untoward incident takes place. They expressed concern over their safety, stating that the atmosphere of fear in the area persists as the accused remain at large.
Police are yet to make an official statement regarding the arrests or further investigation into the matter. Residents have urged swift intervention from law enforcement to restore normalcy and prevent further escalation of violence in the area.