Authorities are attempting to control the situation while investigating the incident as the violence leaves the community in shock and tension.
What Happened?
One of the implicated parties had gone to till the disputed land on a government mandate, according to reports. But as they started their work, members of the opposing group showed up
Police Take Control
The police responded quickly to the situation following the incident. Katihar Sadar SDPO (Sub-Divisional Police Officer) Abhijit Kumar Singh, who confirmed the death over phone, said another person was injured in the shootout, and is being treated in a hospital.
Police have so far arrested four people in the case. Authorities say they have deployed officers in the area to help maintain peace and prevent further violence.
“The situation is currently under control. “We are probing it in detail and have made some arrests,” SDPO Singh said.
Panic and Fear in the Village
The sound of the gunfire caused panic in Pinda village. Gunfire rained and bombs detonated, and residents were terrified. Pero as balas zuniam, gising sight of the kazalundong here echoed in this way.
“I heard all this noise and everybody was scared. We had no idea what to do,” said a local villager.
The police have deployed large numbers in the area to maintain safety and order. A large riot police presence seeks to diffuse tension and reassure the community.
Already existing Land Disputes in Katihar
Katihar has a long history of land-related violence, though. A week earlier, a similar land dispute ensued in the district. That incident -- in which a group of tribal people allegedly invaded land -- became a much debated political and social issue that had caused violent unrest.
Such disputes have been a persistent problem in the region, sometimes leading to violent confrontations. These events point to the underlying issues surrounding land ownership and conflict resolu
tion in the region.
