Ranchi: In a significant development, the Chandel Sub-Divisional Court acquitted nine accused, including AJSU leader Hare Lal Mahto, in the case related to the violent clash between police and villagers during a Chhath Puja at Bamnai in the Chandil block of Saraikela-Kharsawan district. The verdict was delivered by ADJ Sachindra Nath Sinha on May 20, 2025, after the final arguments were concluded on May 17.
During the hearing, senior advocate RSP Sinha, representing the defense, argued that there was no mela (fair) at Bamnai on the day of the incident, and the villagers were simply performing religious rituals. The FIR had been filed based on a complaint by the then Block Development Officer (BDO), Mukesh Kumar, claiming that the police were attacked by villagers. However, the police officer, who allegedly suffered injuries, did not mention any such injuries in his testimony.
The incident took place on April 23, 2021, during the lockdown, when villagers were observing the Chhath Puja. The police reportedly carried out a lathi charge, leading to a violent altercation. An FIR was filed against 41 people, including AJSU leader Hare Lal Mahto. Ten of the accused, including a minor, were arrested and jailed. The case alleged that Mahto had incited the villagers to attack the police. However, the court found no concrete evidence to support these claims.
The defense also pointed out that the prosecution’s witnesses were absent from the scene and the investigation was conducted under biased circumstances. Advocate RSP Sinha argued that the FIR, based on the BDO’s complaint, lacked authenticity, as it also included names of deceased and disabled individuals.
After the verdict, Hare Lal Mahto expressed his gratitude for the judicial system, stating that he always had faith in the Constitution and judiciary. He emphasized that the truth prevails, and it was only because of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Constitution that justice was served in this case. Mahto thanked the court, his lawyers, and his supporters for standing by him and the other accused.
The acquittal has been welcomed by Mahto’s supporters, as it is seen as a victory for the truth and a blow to false accusations.