Munish Sood
MANDI: Tensions flared in Himachal Pradesh’s Seraj Valley as angry residents and political workers confronted Forest Minister Jagat Singh Negi during his official visit on Friday. The protesters waved black flags and allegedly threw a shoe at the minister’s vehicle, prompting a police case against 58 persons.
The FIR was registered at Janjheli police station following a complaint by Congress leader Jagdish Reddy, who hails from the Seraj constituency. The protest reportedly stemmed from widespread local opposition to the government’s decision to shift the Horticulture College from Thunag, a move viewed by residents as detrimental to the region’s development and education prospects.
According to police sources, 12 of the accused have already been identified by name and address, while efforts to ascertain the identities of the remaining individuals are ongoing. Once verified, their names will be added to the FIR.
The case has been filed under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS):
• Section 126(2): Conspiracy to disturb public peace
• Section 179(2): Assault on a public servant
• Section 191(2): Attempt to intimidate a public official
• Section 190: Causing public disorder
Mandi Superintendent of Police Sakshi Verma confirmed the registration of the FIR and said that further investigations are underway.
Protest escalates during minister’s Visit
Minister Negi’s visit came 25 days after a devastating natural disaster struck parts of the Seraj valley, leading to significant damage to infrastructure and livelihoods. However, instead of relief, his arrival sparked outrage among locals and BJP workers who accused the government of negligence and demanded that the horticulture college not be relocated.
As the protest escalated in Janjheli, demonstrators surrounded the minister’s rest house. When he attempted to leave, his vehicle was blocked by angry residents, including women, and black flags were thrown at him. Witnesses claim that a shoe was also hurled at his car during the chaos.
Minister alleges political conspiracy
In response to the incident, Minister Jagat Singh Negi alleged that the protest was politically motivated and orchestrated by the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). “This was not a spontaneous protest but a deliberate attempt to incite unrest,” he said.
The situation was eventually brought under control, but not before raising serious concerns about public sentiment, administrative decisions and political tensions brewing in the aftermath of a natural calamity.
