Clash Over Landfill Sparks Security Concerns in Loni

A protest against a landfill in Meerpur Hindu village, Loni, escalated into violence as farmers clashed with police. Allegations of stone-pelting and police lathi-charge have surfaced, resulting in injuries. Authorities deny using force, although security has been intensified in the area to maintain control.

In Meerpur Hindu village, Loni, a protest against a local landfill site turned violent when farmers and police engaged in a confrontation on Sunday afternoon. The incident, reportedly incited by residents breaking open the gates of the dump to stage a sit-in, led to alleged stone-throwing and police lathi-charge.

Farmers claim that 50 to 60 protestors, including a farmer named Manoj Kumar, suffered injuries on their hands and heads due to the alleged police action. Viral videos of the event circulate on social media, showing these purported injuries. However, authorities contest these claims.

Loni Additional Commissioner of Police Siddhartha Gautam stated that the protesters initiated the stone-pelting, injuring two police officers. He denied any use of force by the police and clarified that law and order are under control, with security heightened to prevent further unrest.

(With inputs from agencies.)