Balangir, June 30 (UDN): Six forest department personnel were injured after a confrontation with villagers turned violent over alleged encroachment of forest land in Jubamal village under Bangomunda range and Turekela police station limits in Odisha’s Balangir district on Tuesday.
According to official sources, forest staff had visited Mundapara area of Jubamal village where encroachment had been reported. The department had also initiated plantation work on the disputed land as part of an afforestation drive.
During inspection of the site, a forester was allegedly attacked by a group of villagers with sticks. Following the incident, additional forest guards and para squad members were called to the location, but the situation further escalated after their arrival, leading to another round of assault.
In the incident, one forester, three forest guards, and two para squad members sustained injuries and were shifted for medical treatment. Their condition is stated to be stable.
The incident gained attention after videos of the clash surfaced on social media, highlighting tensions between locals and forest authorities over land use.
Police have launched an investigation and are verifying the circumstances that led to the violence. Efforts are underway to identify and trace those involved, who are currently absconding.
Further details are awaited as the investigation continues.
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