Amidst the tumultuous aftermath of Monday’s chaos and destruction, the administration under Vishnu Deo Sai’s leadership, representing the BJP in Chhattisgarh, has initiated a significant overhaul in the Baloda Bazar district. Reports indicate a swift response following the eruption of violence and arson allegedly sparked by a particular community’s outrage over the desecration of a religious site.
In a decisive move, the Sai government has relieved District Collector KL Chauhan and Superintendent of Police Sadanand Kumar of their duties in the wake of the recent turmoil.
According to official notifications issued late Tuesday, amidst the backdrop of unrest in Balodabazar, the state authorities have ushered in a new era of governance by appointing IAS officer Deepak Soni as the freshly minted Collector of Balodabazar district. Simultaneously, IPS Vijay Agarwal has been entrusted with the mantle of Superintendent of Police for the district. The former Collector, KL Chauhan, has been reassigned as a Special Secretary within the Ministry, while SP Sadanand Kumar finds himself stationed at the Raipur Police Headquarters.
The swift action against these administrative figures follows the rampage witnessed on Monday, where members of the Satnami community, in protest of the alleged sacrilege of their place of worship, engulfed the district collectorate office premises, incinerating more than 200 vehicles.
In response to the escalating unrest, Section 144 has been invoked across the entire district since Monday’s nightfall. Additionally, the Chhattisgarh Police has mobilized ten specialized teams to meticulously investigate the spate of violence.
Balodabazar’s Collector, KL Chauhan, reports the detainment of approximately 200 individuals in connection to the upheaval.
Outgoing SP Sadanand Kumar disclosed the lodging of seven FIRs, resulting in the arrest of 73 individuals thus far. “Our ongoing efforts involve the diligent pursuit of the perpetrators,” Kumar stated, highlighting the utilization of CCTV footage and other investigative resources to identify and apprehend the culprits.
While assurances were given for a peaceful demonstration, Kumar expressed disappointment at the disruption caused by unruly elements. “Stringent measures will be taken against those responsible,” he affirmed, signaling a commitment to restoring order amidst the chaos.
