Retired MCL official detained for firing gunshots over land controversy in Jharsuguda

A retired official of Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) has been detained by police for allegedly firing gunshots at labourers over some land dispute in Jharsuguda on Monday night. The accused has been identified as RK Singh.

According to sources, Singh has a long-standing land dispute with his neighbour. The dispute took an ugly turn following the demolition of a boundary wall.

Singh lost her cool over the demolition of a wall while some labourers were cleaning the road near Bombay Chowk in Jharsuguda . 

Subsequently, he brought a rifle and allegedly made a blank firing to disperse the labourers. Then he also allegedly fired a gunshot targeting a labourer.

Upon being informed, Jharsuguda police reached the spot and started an investigation into the incident.

Singh has been detained and he is currently being questioned over the matter.

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As per police sources, Singh has a valid arms license. He was given the license for self-protection while he was working in Jharkhand.

“He (the retired official) first made a blank firing while we were working. Then he fired a gunshot by targeting me. Luckily, I escaped. I don’t know whose rifle was that,” said a labourer.

However, no comments could be obtained from Singh and his neighbour over the matter.