Violence erupted in Chhattisgarh’s Surguja district on Wednesday as residents of a nearby village staged a forceful protest against the proposed expansion of the Amera coal extension mine in Lakhanpur block. Villagers accused the mine operator of pushing ahead with expansion work without legally acquiring land, securing their consent, or addressing concerns about the threat posed to their agricultural land, water sources, and homes.
Eyewitnesses reported that tensions escalated when villagers attempted to block workers and officials en route to the mine gate. The crowd, armed with sticks, axes, and slingshots, allegedly began hurling stones at police personnel present at the site, triggering a violent confrontation. Nearly 40 police personnel were injured in the attack, and several villagers are also believed to have been hurt during the clashes.
With the situation rapidly deteriorating, the police called for reinforcements. Senior officers, including the Additional District Magistrate, rushed to the scene to regain control. Tear-gas shells were kept on standby in case crowd dispersal became necessary.
Officials stated that villagers’ objections to the mine expansion would be conveyed to the concerned authorities, but emphasised that disruption of law and order would not be tolerated. Meanwhile, residents have demanded that expansion activities be halted until the due land acquisition procedures are completed and adequate compensation is guaranteed. The mine operator has not released a statement on the matter.
Police remain deployed in the area, and the local administration has appealed to villagers to maintain peace as the situation continues to be monitored.
