SUBHASH MISHRA
Dhanbad, Oct 9: A truck driver sustained bullet injuries after alleged firing by a contractor’s son at the Barmasia Food Corporation of India (FCI) godown loading point under Dhansar police station on Thursday afternoon, police officials said.
The injured driver, identified as Shrawan Yadav, was shot in the thigh and hand and was rushed to Shahid Nirmal Mahto Medical College Hospital (SNMMCH). Doctors later confirmed that his condition was stable.
Eyewitnesses claimed that Kunal Singh, son of contractor Sanjay Singh, opened fire on the protesting truck drivers, discharging around 15 rounds. Two bullets struck Yadav during the incident.
Also Read- Hungarian author Laszlo Krasznahorkai wins 2025 Nobel Prize in Literature
Tension Follows After Firing Incident
Dhansar police station officer-in-charge Manohar Karmal said the incident occurred at around 1.30 pm. Police recovered a pistol, 12 live cartridges, several empty cartridges, two magazines, and a Safari four-wheeler from the spot.
Following the firing, tension gripped the area. A large contingent of personnel from Dhansar and Bank More police stations was deployed to bring the situation under control.
Protest Over Loading Charges Turns Violent
Earlier in the day, truck drivers and labourers had gathered at the loading point, staging a sit-in protest demanding a hike in loading charges. Around 1.30 pm, Kunal Singh arrived at the site in a car with four associates, which led to heated arguments with the protesters.
Witnesses said Kunal suddenly drew a pistol and opened fire at the agitators. They also claimed that some firing was done in retaliation from the protesters’ side. Shrawan Yadav was injured during this exchange.
Also Read- India-UK formalize trade agreement during Modi-Starmer meeting
Accused Thrashed, Police Launch Search
Enraged by the shooting, the protesting drivers allegedly overpowered Kunal Singh and his aides, thrashing them on the spot. Three people were injured in the scuffle and were admitted to Patliputra Nursing Home.
Officer-in-charge Manohar Karmali reached the site with police personnel and brought the situation under control. A search operation is underway to arrest the accused involved in the firing incident.
