Punjab illegal mining: Batala 'beldar' murdered by mafia; victim's son also injured
Batala Beldar murder case: In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the courageous act of Sukhdev Singh, a Beldar from Batala, who valiantly stood against illegal mining at the Kasur Branch canal, resulted in his tragic demise. The incident, which occurred on a fateful late Wednesday night, claimed his life, leaving a community in mourning and sparking concerns about the persisting issue of illegal mining.
Sukhdev Singh, also known as Darshan Singh, son of Bawa Singh and aged 53, hailed from Nathpur Kadi. He dedicatedly performed his duties at Kasur Branch Canal Burji No. 75/350, stationed at Kotla Baja Singh village under the jurisdiction of the Rangar Nangal police station. His untimely death was a consequence of his confrontation with individuals involved in unauthorised mining activities.
SHO Sukhwinder Singh of the Rangar Nangal police station provided insights into the tragic incident. Darshan Singh, in collaboration with his colleagues, was on duty during the night when they intercepted a driver operating a tractor trolley laden with illicitly acquired sand. Upon apprehending the driver, they instructed him to proceed to the rest house for further procedures. However, as Darshan Singh conversed with the driver, the situation took a dire turn when the driver abruptly veered the tractor trolley towards Mirpur, intentionally striking and inflicting severe injuries on Darshan Singh. Despite efforts by his colleagues to rush him to the Civil Hospital Batala, the doctors, unfortunately, pronounced him dead upon arrival.
The assailant responsible for the grievous assault fled the scene with the tractor trolley, evading immediate capture. Authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the incident, assuring that stringent actions will be taken against the perpetrator.
The tragic murder of Beldar Sukhdev Singh underscores the persisting challenges posed by illegal mining activities despite stringent government directives and administrative measures. The incident serves as a grim reminder that individuals opposing such unlawful practices often face grave threats and even lethal attacks from those engaged in illegal mining.
This incident echoes a disturbing trend seen near the Kasur branch canal in Batala, where individuals involved in unauthorised mining resorted to violence against a government-appointed Beldar who attempted to curtail their illegal operations. The attackers, driven by their vested interests, assaulted the Beldar, causing severe injuries, and absconded from the scene with their equipment.
Despite immediate efforts to provide medical attention, the injuries proved fatal, leading to the tragic demise of the Beldar. The family members of the deceased have pleaded for justice, urging the Punjab government to take necessary measures to address the persisting issue of illegal mining and ensure accountability for such heinous acts.
The loss of Sukhdev Singh serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those brave souls who stand against illegal activities for the betterment of society. His sacrifice amplifies the urgent need for more stringent measures to curb illegal mining activities and ensure the safety of those defending the law and order of our communities.
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- PTC NEWS
