Protesting chowkidars caned, 15 detained

Patna: A protest led by ‘chowkidar’ and ‘dafadaars’ (watchmen) in the state capital turned violent on Monday afternoon when police resorted to a lathicharge to disperse the demonstrators, leaving several injured on both sides.

Police also detained 15 protestors following the clash.The protesters, under the banner of Chowkidar-Dafardaar Sangh, assembled at JP roundabout near Gandhi Maidan to press for long-pending demands, including a higher honorarium, improved service conditions, and other unresolved grievances. They broke through police barricades and marched towards Dak Bungalow crossing. Despite heavy deployment of police personnel, riot control vehicles, and additional forces at the location, the protestors continued their advance after initial persuasion efforts failed and minor scuffles occurred.When the protest persisted, authorities resorted to a baton charge, resulting in chaos on the road. Among the injured was Prabhu, a watchman from Ara district, who suffered a head injury during the lathicharge. He was rushed to a hospital for treatment. Several other protesters and police personnel also sustained injuries in the clash.Krishna Murari Prasad, DSP (law and order), said over 800 chowkidars and dafadars gathered at Dak Bungalow crossing for their demands.

“We used force to disperse them as they broke the barriers. Over three police personnel were injured in the melee and some demonstrators were also hurt,” he said.“At least 15 people were detained and brought to Kotwali police station. An FIR was registered against the detained individuals and other unidentified people for their actions. The accused will be identified through CCTV footage and videos,” the DSP said, adding that the charges would cover taking law and order in their hands, disturbing govt work, not following police orders, breaching barricades, and related offences.The protestors alleged that they repeatedly highlighted their demands to the govt over a long period without receiving any concrete response or action. Frustration over the lack of progress on issues like honorarium revision and better working conditions reportedly fuelled the agitation, they said.