Dhanbad (Jharkhand), July 15 (IANS) The political rivalry between BJP MP Dhullu Mahto and CPI-ML-backed MLA Arup Chatterjee in Jharkhand came face to face when both leaders organised separate programmes at nearly the same time over a proposed elevated road project worth around Rs 400 crore in Dhanbad.

The parallel demonstrations in Dhanbad’s Nirsa on Wednesday turned the development initiative into a fresh flashpoint in their ongoing political rivalry.

Despite heightened tensions, both events concluded peacefully under a tight security watch, with no reports of violence or clashes.

Addressing a gathering of BJP workers and members of labour organisations near the proposed project site, Mahto accused MLA Chatterjee of obstructing the Centre-approved infrastructure project for personal interests.

He asserted that development work would not be allowed to stall under any circumstances and said those attempting to create hurdles would be countered through democratic means.

On the other hand, Chatterjee led a protest march under the banner of the CPI-ML and the Bihar Colliery Kamgar Union. He maintained that his opposition was not directed against development, but against alleged corruption and irregularities associated with the project.

The MLA alleged that the project was being used as a means for illegal financial gains and attempts to grab land.

He further claimed that it was also being leveraged to expand political influence in the region.

Given the possibility of confrontation, the administration maintained strict vigil throughout the day in the area.

Superintendent of Police, Rural, S. Mohammad Yakub personally monitored the situation from Nirsa.

Additional police personnel, riot-control units, Vajra vehicles and other security resources were deployed in sensitive areas. Preventive action had also been initiated against several individuals in anticipation of possible unrest.

Political tensions over the elevated road project have intensified over the past few days. Recently, Chatterjee claimed that he had received threats in the name of a gangster and raised questions over the MP’s alleged role in the matter.

Mahto, however, dismissed the allegations and accused the MLA of shielding criminals. The MP has also served a Rs 2 crore defamation notice on Chatterjee.

–IANS

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