Tragic Death of Forest Guard in Madhya Pradesh During Anti-Mining Operation
Incident Overview
Representational Image
Morena, April 8: A tragic event unfolded in Madhya Pradesh where a forest guard lost his life after being struck by a tractor-trolley during an operation aimed at curbing illegal mining activities in the Morena district.
Details of the Incident
As reported by local authorities, the incident took place early Wednesday morning at the Ranpur village intersection, within the jurisdiction of the Dimni police station. A team from the forest department was reportedly attacked by individuals involved in illegal sand mining.
Harkesh Gurjar, the forest guard, was killed instantly when the tractor-trolley, which was loaded with sand, collided with him while he attempted to halt its progress. The perpetrators fled the scene immediately after the incident, avoiding arrest.
The forest team had responded to a tip-off regarding illegal sand transportation when the situation escalated into violence.
Response from Authorities
Senior officials, including Collector Lokesh Kumar Jangid, Superintendent of Police Sameer Saurabh, and Divisional Forest Officer Harishchandra Baghel, arrived at the scene to assess the situation.
The body of Harkesh Gurjar was transported to the Morena district hospital for a post-mortem examination.
Authorities have initiated a murder investigation at the Dimni police station against unidentified suspects.
Ongoing Investigation
Additional Superintendent of Police Surendra Pal Singh stated that several teams have been established to locate the suspects. He mentioned, “We have acquired CCTV footage from a nearby petrol station and are conducting raids at suspected locations. Extra police forces have also been deployed in the area.”
Political Reactions
The Congress party has expressed grave concerns regarding the law and order situation in Madhya Pradesh, criticizing the audacity of criminals.
Umang Singhar, the Leader of Opposition in the state Assembly, remarked, “The brutal murder of constable Harkesh Gurjar, who was run over by a tractor, is not only shocking but also highlights the complete absence of fear of the law among criminals in the state.”
He further claimed that this incident reflects the declining law and order in Madhya Pradesh, stating, “The mining mafia is eliminating the very protectors of the law in broad daylight, while the government remains passive. This is a clear failure of governance and indicates the support criminals receive.”