30 Policemen Injured as Villagers Hurl Stones During Protest Against Coal Mining Project

At least 30 policemen were injured after violent clashes erupted between security forces and villagers protesting a proposed coal mining project on Monday. The confrontation began when hundreds of residents gathered near the mining site to oppose land acquisition and alleged environmental threats posed by the project.

According to officials, the situation escalated when a section of the crowd began stone pelting at police personnel deployed to maintain order. The police responded with controlled crowd-dispersal measures, but the intensity of the attack resulted in multiple injuries among the security forces.

Local villagers have been protesting for weeks, claiming the mining project would lead to displacement, loss of agricultural land, and ecological damage. Many alleged that their concerns have not been addressed despite repeated appeals to district authorities.

Police officials said that the protest turned unexpectedly violent despite prior assurances of peaceful demonstration. Several police vehicles were damaged in the attack, and reinforcements were rushed to the area to prevent further escalation.

Authorities have announced a detailed investigation into the incident and are identifying those involved in the violence. Meanwhile, officials from the mining company and district administration have called for fresh dialogue to resolve the ongoing conflict.

The incident highlights the growing tensions between rural communities and mining operations, especially in regions where land rights, environmental impacts, and livelihood concerns remain unaddressed.