Demolition drive in Varanasi sans notice invites public ire

At least three people, including a policeman, were injured today when angry mob protesting against the authorities carrying out a demolition drive without prior notice clashed with police here.

Varanasi, Dec 29 : At least three people, including a policeman, were injured today when angry mob protesting against the authorities carrying out a demolition drive without prior notice clashed with police here.

The demolition of illegal encroachments in Varanasi's Chowkaghat area without any notice angered the people.

After initial argument with the demolition squad, the mob started pelting stones, in which a police official was injured.

The clash took an ugly turn when the police resorted to baton-charge the protestors. The mob also set a police camp on fire.

Residents termed the demolition drive without notice as "unconstitutional."

"No notice was issued to shopkeepers. If we were informed in advance then we would have been prepared. The whole act is unconstitutional," said Bhaiya Lal, a resident.

"It's all wrong. At least they should have served us a notice. Their action cannot be justified," said Tara Devi, another resident.

Residents claimed that many structures that were being demolished were not illegal.

ANI