Ghaziabad Farmers Face Police Lathi-Charge During Landfill Protest, Several Hurt

Police allegedly resorted to a lathi-charge against farmers protesting the construction of a landfill site in Ghaziabad, leaving several individuals injured. The protest, which escalated on Wednesday morning, was organized by local farmers concerned about environmental hazards and the impact of the landfill on their farmland and health.

Eyewitnesses reported that tensions rose when demonstrators attempted to block access to the proposed landfill site. Authorities say police were deployed to maintain law and order, but the situation reportedly turned chaotic, resulting in the use of batons to disperse the crowd. Several farmers sustained injuries and were treated at nearby hospitals, though the extent of the injuries remains unclear.

The farmers have voiced concerns over contamination of soil and groundwater, increased air pollution, and long-term health risks associated with the landfill. They have also alleged that their grievances were not adequately addressed in previous meetings with municipal officials, prompting the protest.

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Local authorities, while defending the police action as necessary to prevent disruption and ensure safety, have assured that the complaints of the injured will be examined. Municipal officials added that the landfill project is part of a broader waste management plan aimed at addressing rising urban waste in Ghaziabad.

Political leaders and social activists have criticized the incident, calling for dialogue and peaceful resolution rather than the use of force. Opposition parties have demanded an inquiry into the police action, emphasizing the need to protect the rights of farmers and local residents.

As tensions persist, both the administration and farmer groups are being urged to engage in negotiations to resolve the dispute. The incident underscores the challenges of balancing urban development projects with environmental concerns and the rights of affected communities.

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