Court Acquits Nine, Including AJSU Leader, in Bamnai Violence Case

Ranchi: In a major legal development, the Chandel Sub-Divisional Court has acquitted nine individuals, including AJSU leader Hare Lal Mahto, in connection with the Bamnai violence case. The incident stemmed from a clash between police and villagers during Chhath Puja celebrations in the Chandil block of the Saraikela-Kharsawan district. The verdict, delivered by Additional District Judge Sachindra Nath Sinha on May 20, 2025, followed the conclusion of final arguments on May 17.

Senior advocate RSP Sinha, who represented the defense, argued that no fair (mela) was taking place at Bamnai at the time of the incident. He maintained that villagers were merely engaged in religious rituals. The FIR, lodged by then Block Development Officer (BDO) Mukesh Kumar, alleged that villagers had attacked the police. However, the police officer who was reportedly injured made no mention of any such injuries in court.

The incident occurred on April 23, 2021, amid the COVID-19 lockdown, when police allegedly resorted to a lathi charge during the religious observance, sparking violence. The FIR named 41 individuals, including Mahto. Ten people, including a minor, were arrested and jailed. Mahto was accused of instigating the villagers, but the court found no solid evidence to support the claim.

The defense further highlighted that the prosecution's witnesses were not present at the scene and that the investigation was marred by bias. Advocate Sinha also questioned the legitimacy of the FIR, noting that it named individuals who were either deceased or physically disabled.

Following the verdict, Hare Lal Mahto expressed his gratitude to the judiciary, reaffirming his faith in the Constitution and the justice system. He credited Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Constitution for ensuring justice, and thanked the court, his legal team, and his supporters for their unwavering support.

The acquittal has been widely celebrated by Mahto's supporters, who see it as a triumph of truth over false allegations.