Violence over encroachment removal leaves 6 policemen injured

Varanasi, June 6 (UNI) At least six policemen and several government employees were injured when a mob protesting against the removal of encroachments around the Buddhist pilgrimage of Sarnath indulged in violence here today.

The incident took place when a team of Varanasi Development Authority (VDA) officials embarked on a drive to remove encroachment near the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) protected monuments around Sarnath, including the 'Chaukhandi Stoopa.' Angered over the VDA action, the protestors first blocked the road and then hurled stones on the officials resulting in injuries to several employees, including VDA deputy secretary Harishchandra, D M Chowdhary, Jokhu Yadav and Panna Lal.

The protestors also damaged three vehicles including the official vehicle of Trans Varuna Zonal Officer Ramesh Singh.

Getting information of the incident, police personnel led by Police Superintendent (City) Arun Pandey rushed to the spot. The protestors, however, continued to indulge in violence, fighting a pitched battle with the policemen.

The injured policemen have been admitted to the district hospital. Police also fired in the air to disperse the angry mob but failed to quell the violence. A water canon was also damaged by the protestors.

Police in strength have been deployed in the area to avoid any fresh violence.

UNI