Bihar: Nearly 25 Dalit homes set ablaze over land dispute
What's the story
Around 20 to 25 homes belonging to Dalit families were set on fire in Nawada, Bihar, on Wednesday night.
The incident occurred in Manjhi Tola within the jurisdiction of Mufassil Police station and was reportedly triggered by a land dispute.
According to reports, miscreants fired shots into the air before proceeding to torch each house one after another.
No injuries have been reported so far from this incident.
Law enforcement
Police response and ongoing investigation
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has directed the Additional Director General of Police (ADG) for law and order to inspect the incident site.
Superintendent of Police Abhinav Dhiman stated that they received a call around 7:30pm about the fires, and police arrived on scene with fire engines shortly after.
A case has been registered, 15 people have been detained so far, and search operations are underway to apprehend other suspects involved in this act of arson.
Aftermath
Relief efforts and political reactions
Nawada District Magistrate Ashutosh Kumar Verma has confirmed that relief materials, including food packets and drinking water, are being provided to those displaced by the fire.
Temporary tents have also been set up for the victims.
The incident has drawn condemnation from Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, who criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its National Democratic Alliance (NDA) allies for their alleged indifference toward such crimes against Dalits.
Calls for justice
Political leaders demand action and support for victims
BSP chief Mayawati described the incident as "extremely sad and serious," calling on the government to take strict legal action against the culprits and provide full financial assistance for victim rehabilitation.
Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi also criticized the JD(U)-BJP government, accusing it of showing "utter indifference" toward Dalits and deprived individuals.
He further alleged that these parties shelter anarchist elements who intimidate Bahujans, preventing them from demanding their social and constitutional rights.