Two Workers Killed and One Injured in Naxal-Triggered IED Blast at Chhattisgarh Iron Ore Mine

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Two workers were tragically killed and another was injured in a devastating incident at an iron ore mine in Narayanpur district, Chhattisgarh. The incident occurred on Friday and was triggered by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) planted by Naxals, a militant group operating in the area. The injured worker is currently in critical condition.

The blast took place at approximately 7:30 AM when the three workers were heading to work at the iron ore mine located on a hill in Aamdai Ghati, under the jurisdiction of the Chhote Dongar police station. This area is known to be heavily affected by Naxalite insurgency.

According to the police, the IED exploded when the workers came into contact with the pressure explosive, resulting in the death of two workers and injuries to another. The authorities believe that the workers unintentionally triggered the blast by unknowingly activating the pressure IED connection.

The deceased workers have been identified as Ritesh Gagda (21) and Shravan Gagda (24), both residents of Narayanpur district. Initially, Shravan was reported missing after the explosion, but his body was later found at the blast site. The injured worker, Umesh Rana, has been admitted to a local hospital where he is currently in stable condition.

The iron ore mine where the incident occurred is operated by Jayaswal Neco Industries Limited (JNIL). However, Naxalites have been actively opposing the project for an extended period. This opposition has led to numerous conflicts and acts of violence in the area.

In a related incident, a 25-year-old villager was shot dead by Naxalites in Narayanpur district on suspicion of being a police informer. The victim, Amar Uikey, was allegedly murdered after a ‘jan adalat’ (kangaroo court) held by the Naxalites. The police are currently investigating the incident and gathering further information.

According to the police, Uikey was accused of providing information to the District Reserve Guard (DRG), an anti-Naxal unit of the state police. The Maoists claimed that Uikey’s tip-off led to an encounter between Naxalites and security personnel in October, resulting in the deaths of two Naxalites. The police had recovered weapons and ammunition from the encounter site.

The authorities are working to maintain peace and security in the region, which has been plagued by ongoing conflict between Naxalites and security forces. The incident at the iron ore mine and the murder of Amar Uikey highlight the challenges faced by the local population and the efforts needed to maintain law and order.

It is crucial for the authorities to address the root causes of the Naxalite insurgency and work towards a peaceful resolution. The safety and well-being of the local community and workers in industries such as mining should be a top priority..