Speculation that the crisis between Ramkumar Toppo and Naib Tehsildar Tushar Manikpuri has touched a fever pitch, police have lodged FIR against both individuals in their respective complaints.
MLA Ramkumar Toppo’s supporters are in police custody while a case has been registered against them under non-bailable sections, and the case against Naib Tehsildar Tushar Manikpuri under bailable sections, according to police officials.
The issue gained further intensity following the holding of a protest camp by the MLA supporters and the Revenue Inspectors Association office bearers at the police station, demanding that the steps be taken by the activists. Both groups had a tense encounter inside the police station premises, where they started shouting slogans against one another, it is reported.
Considering the circumstances, the police authorities have deployed more police personnel to ensure precautionary measures and to keep the situation from getting out of hand around the police station.
Responding to the FIR, MLA Ramkumar Toppo called off the allegations leveled against him. His elder sister has been misbehaved by Naib Tehsildar, resulting in confrontation, he said in a statement here. The MLA also said that he was willing to participate “full-throttle” in the police probe.
If I am convicted, there is punishment that should be meted out to me.” The MLA has been slapped with the charge of assault, and an FIR has been lodged against him, Toppo told the media while addressing the media.
In the meantime, the Revenue Inspectors Association has strongly demanded the arrest of Naib Tehsildar Tushar Manikpuri and the MLA within 24 hours. Association members said that they would take out the agitation if their demand was not met.
At the same time, pro-MLA groups are also pushing for stern action against the Naib Tehsildar, citing their views of non-observance of law and rules of conduct.
The incident has raised tensions in the region, to the political and administrative level, and both sides have rebutted the charges. Police officials stated this is an investigation, and they will proceed further in court action based on the evidence and statements gathered in the course of the investigation.