Clash Erupts During Crackdown on Illegal Brick Kilns in Boko

Conflict During Anti-Illegal Brick Kiln Operation

Boko, March 8: A recent initiative by the Boko-Chaygaon co-district administration aimed at dismantling illegal brick kilns in Bamunbari and Gelabari villages turned chaotic on Saturday, as government officials encountered fierce opposition from those involved in the brick-making industry.

The operation, led by Chamaria Revenue Circle Officer Nandan Nilotpal Bhagawati, sought to demolish unauthorized kilns with the help of an excavator. However, some kiln operators reportedly incited local villagers, even pushing women to the forefront to block the officials' efforts. This led to heated exchanges, forcing the team to withdraw after only partially demolishing one kiln.

Bhagawati later reported that the group attempted to assault the excavator operator, the village head, and other officials. He promised that legal actions would be pursued and that further operations against these illegal establishments would continue.

Local residents claim that substantial amounts of money are invested in establishing these kilns without adhering to scientific methods, posing risks to agricultural land, drinking water supplies, and public health. The pollution generated has reportedly impacted schoolchildren in the vicinity, and alarmingly, minors are being employed as laborers.

Despite the existence of over 500 such kilns operating without proper documentation, taxes, or GST payments, the Pollution Control Board has seemingly ignored the situation. Reports indicate that bricks are being transported to other states in trucks, right under the watch of the Boko Police.

Community members and legitimate kiln owners assert that illegal operators continue their profitable business by 'managing' various departments, including Forest, Police, and Transport. The village head has filed a complaint at the Mandira police outpost against individuals who obstructed the operation.

Concerned citizens have voiced their worries that the lack of effective action may be due to a tacit understanding between the administration and illegal kiln operators, resulting in significant environmental and social issues in the area.