MP: Rumours Trigger Stone Pelting At Pithampur Factory; No End To Protests Over UCC Waste Disposal | FP Photo
Pithampur/Mhow (Madhya Pradesh): Tension escalated at the Ramky Enviro Industries factory near Tarpura village on Saturday as a mob, spooked by rumours, threw stones at the facility, causing significant damage to vehicles. The unrest is linked to ongoing protests against the disposal of Union Carbide Company (UCC) toxic waste.
This marks the third consecutive day of protests. The police responded with a lathi charge and tear gas to disperse the crowd, and SDM Pramod Kumar Gurjar clarified that the protests were triggered by rumours that hazardous waste containers from Bhopal were being opened, with workers allegedly harmed in the process.
Gurjar, who personally inspected the containers, confirmed that none were opened and no injuries had occurred. In response to the violence, authorities imposed prohibitory orders within a 100-meter radius of the factory, warning of strict action against violators.
5 cases registered against protesters Police have registered five cases against the protesters involved in the disturbances, which included a mob of around 500-600 people. The protests, which disrupted public peace, led to the implementation of these orders. Despite the unrest, normal industrial operations resumed in Pithampur.
Commissioner in Pithampur Divisional Commissioner Deepak Singh urged people to verify facts about the UCC waste disposal. He reinforced the government’s commitment to public welfare and legal compliance, stressing that the disposal process would be carefully managed under court directives.
Waste disposal report to be submitted in HC on Jan 6 Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has assured that a detailed report on the waste disposal would be submitted to the Madhya Pradesh High Court by January 6. He emphasised that no incineration would take place until the court provides further guidance, calling for the public not to be swayed by misinformation.
People flee rented houses near Ramky Pithampur ward 1 councillor Kiran Chopda’s husband Chaman said several people living on rent in Tarpura village near Ramky unit left their homes after the protest for their health and security reasons.
