30 cops among several injured as villagers clash with police over road construction

A dispute over road construction in Odisha’s Rayagada district escalated into a violent confrontation on Tuesday, leaving more than 30 police personnel injured and several villagers hurt, officials said. The clash occurred in Sagbari village, where tensions have been brewing for days over a road project linked to proposed mining activity in the Sijimali region.

Following the clashes, authorities imposed curbs, restricting unlawful assembly of people in order to avoid any further escalation in tensions.

According to local authorities, the road was being developed by a private company to connect Sagbari with nearby areas, facilitating access to the mining site.

However, sections of the local tribal community had been opposing the project, citing concerns over its potential impact on their land, environment, and livelihoods.

The situation turned volatile when police teams reached the site to engage with protesters and ensure law and order.

What began as an attempt at dialogue soon deteriorated, as agitated villagers reportedly began pelting stones at the security personnel.

The confrontation quickly intensified, leading to injuries on both sides.

Among those injured were senior officers, including the Sub-Divisional Police Officer of Rayagada and the Inspector-in-Charge of Kashipur police station.

Of the more than 30 injured police personnel, at least seven are said to be in critical condition and have been admitted to the district headquarters hospital in Rayagada.

Others are undergoing treatment at the Kashipur Community Health Centre. Several villagers also sustained injuries and are receiving medical care.

In response to the violence, the district administration has deployed additional police forces to the area to restore order and prevent further escalation.

Senior officials, including the district collector and superintendent of police, are present on the ground and are closely monitoring the situation.

Authorities stated that the road construction is part of a government-approved mining initiative in the region.

However, opposition from local residents continues, with many fearing displacement and ecological damage.

To contain the situation, prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita have been imposed in the affected village.

While the situation remains tense, officials indicated that it is gradually being brought under control, with efforts underway to prevent any further clashes.

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