DM Held Hostage in Begusarai, Rescued by Police from Seven Stations: Full Story Inside

A dramatic incident has unfolded in Begusarai, Bihar, where a district magistrate was held hostage by locals. The DM was inspecting a museum near Lohia Nagar Ghumti when a large crowd, angry with a slum eviction drive, surrounded his vehicle and held him captive for about an hour.

The Incident

Chaos erupted when railway officials accompanied by police forces came to dismantle slum dwellings in the area. The residents protested the demolition, alleging that the administration was pulling down their homes without adequate arrangements. The authorities learnt of the situation and sent police forces from seven stations to quell the crowd and rescue the DM. In the end, the officials managed to calm the protesters and enabled the DM to leave safely.

Background of the Eviction Drive

The railway authorities had issued eviction notices to 150 slum families, with the final deadline being Thursday. The residents, many of whom claimed to have lived there for over 50 years, demanded more time and alternative housing arrangements. Considering the public outrage, the railway authorities temporarily halted the demolition process.

Authorities' Response

Officials assured the protesters that their concerns would be addressed and their demands for more time and relocation would be reviewed. This high-stakes standoff is a manifestation of the tension that has been ongoing between slum dwellers and authorities over issues of land rights and housing.