Key Points
- Complete Shutdown: Pithampur and Sagaur markets remain completely closed as a mark of protest against the burning of Union Carbide waste.
- Suicide Attempts: Two protesters attempted self-immolation in Pithampur; both were rescued and hospitalized.
- Clashes with Police: Protesters clashed with police while attempting to storm the Ramki Company plant where the waste is set to be incinerated.
- Roadblocks and Bandh: Demonstrators blocked key roads, including the Mhow-Neemuch highway, while businesses and shops across Pithampur and Sagaur shut in solidarity.
- Heavy Police Deployment: Authorities are on high alert, monitoring all areas to prevent further escalation of violence.
Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh: The towns of Pithampur and Sagaur witnessed a complete shutdown today as locals protested against the incineration of Union Carbide waste at the Ramki Company plant. The agitation took a grim turn when two young protesters, identified as Rajkumar Raghuvanshi and Raj Patel, attempted self-immolation during the demonstration.
Both were rescued by fellow protestors and rushed to the hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment.
Violence Erupts During Protest March
The situation escalated when a large crowd of demonstrators attempted to march toward the Ramki Company plant, which is slated to burn hazardous waste from the infamous Union Carbide disaster. Police intervened to stop the crowd, leading to a clash where protesters resorted to stone-pelting. Authorities managed to push back the crowd, but tensions remain high.
Pithampur Bandh: A Unified Stand Against Waste Burning
The call for a bandh (shutdown) on Friday resulted in deserted markets, neighborhoods, and streets in Pithampur and Sagaur. Businesses, including shops and hotels, remained closed, reflecting the widespread support for the protest.
Protesters gathered in large numbers at key points such as Pithampur’s bus stand, Sanwariya Chauraha, and Azad Chauraha, with chants growing louder against the incineration plans.
Roadblocks Disrupt Traffic
Demonstrators blocked major roads, including the Mhow-Neemuch highway and areas near Chhatra Chaya Gate. While attempts to block roads were thwarted by the police at several locations, traffic disruptions persisted throughout the day.
Heightened Security to Maintain Order
Authorities have deployed a significant police force across Pithampur to monitor the protest and prevent further violence. Despite the heightened tensions, officials are striving to ensure the demonstrations remain peaceful.
Background of the Protests
The agitation gained momentum after the Union Carbide waste was transported to the Ramki plant early Thursday morning. The toxic waste is a remnant of the 1984 Bhopal Gas Tragedy, one of the world’s worst industrial disasters. Protesters fear the incineration could release harmful toxins into the environment, posing severe health risks to the local population.
Voices Grow Louder
Speaking on the issue, a local protest leader said, “The burning of this hazardous waste is a violation of our right to health and safety. We demand that the government immediately halt these plans and find an alternative solution.”
What’s Next?
With no resolution in sight, the protests are expected to intensify in the coming days. Authorities are urging calm while engaging with local leaders to address the community’s concerns.
