The political rivalry between BJP MP Dhullu Mahto and CPI-ML-backed MLA Arup Chatterjee in Jharkhand escalated as they both organized separate events simultaneously for a proposed elevated road project valued at around Rs 400 crore in Dhanbad. The parallel demonstrations in Dhanbad’s Nirsa on Wednesday turned the development initiative into a fresh flashpoint in their ongoing political feud.
Despite the heightened tensions, both events concluded peacefully under tight security surveillance, with no reports of violence or clashes. Mahto, addressing a gathering near the project site, accused MLA Chatterjee of obstructing the Centre-approved infrastructure project for personal gain. He emphasized that development work would continue unhindered and vowed to address any obstacles through democratic means.
Chatterjee, on the other hand, led a protest march under the CPI-ML banner, expressing opposition not to development but to alleged corruption and irregularities linked to the project. He claimed the project was being exploited for illicit financial gains, land grabbing, and political influence expansion in the region. The administration maintained strict vigilance throughout the day in anticipation of potential confrontations.
Superintendent of Police, Rural, S. Mohammad Yakub, oversaw the situation personally from Nirsa, with additional police personnel, riot-control units, Vajra vehicles, and other security resources deployed in sensitive areas. Preventive measures were taken against several individuals to prevent any unrest. Tensions over the elevated road project have surged recently, with allegations and counter-allegations between the MP and the MLA, including threats and defamation notices.
