Talcher, Odisha: Tension gripped Ekdal village under Talcher block after violence broke out during a demolition drive by Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL). A family resisted the eviction and allegedly attacked the police. This led to the Talcher Police attack incident that shocked the area.
According to reports, the demolition was supervised by SI Pushpita Tripathy and Sub-Inspector Balaram Behera from Gopal Prasad Police Station. Several other officers including Swarnamayee Sandha, Bhabaranjan Sahu, Sabita Patnaik, and Shradhanjali Amanta were also present on duty. The clash erupted during their presence.
As officials demolished the house of Pradeep Naik, his family protested furiously. The situation escalated when they allegedly abused and attacked police officers with sharp weapons. They also used a axe, reportedly trying to injure them seriously.
Acting swiftly, police arrested Sushma Naik (38), Preetish Naik, and Siladevi Naik (29) while detaining a minor. All weapons used in the Talcher Police were seized. A case has been registered at the Gopal Prasad Police Station for assault and attempted murder.
Although no statement has come from the accused family yet, locals claim that MCL’s unclear policies on rehabilitation and compensation have triggered growing dissatisfaction. Among displaced residents, many fear more such clashes could erupt if communication gaps persist.
Authorities have urged calm. They emphasize that future demolition drives will be conducted with transparency and fairness. The incident has once again highlighted the rising tension between project-affected villagers and the coal company in the Talcher industrial belt.
