Sambalpur: SMC Officials Manhandled Over Tea Shop Sealing; Complaint to Be Filed Against Accused
Incident in Sambalpur
Sambalpur: A dispute broke out in Sambalpur when officials from the Sambalpur Municipal Corporation (SMC) faced resistance while sealing a tea shop. The incident occurred near Baidyanath Chowk in Golebazar, where the officials encountered physical obstruction and a scuffle. The accused allegedly pushed and manhandled two senior administrative officers who had come to enforce the seal. SMC Commissioner Vedbhushan confirmed that an FIR will be filed against those involved.
Background of the Tea Shop Issue
The tea shop in question had not paid rent to the SMC since 2018. Despite receiving three notices, the shop owner failed to clear the dues. Additionally, the owner issued a check that later bounced. Three days before the incident, SMC had issued a final notice for sealing the shop.
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Authorities Take Action
On the evening of the incident, a team led by SMC Enforcement Officer Sushant Sahu and Additional Commissioner Ashok Mishra arrived to carry out the sealing process. Since the shop was open, the officers instructed the staff to close it. They then sealed the premises. However, a local leader opposed the action. Another senior leader was called to the spot, and upon arrival, he insisted that the officials reopen the shop. When the officers refused, a heated argument ensued.
Physical Altercation with Officials
The refusal to reopen the shop led to a scuffle. The BJP leader and his supporters allegedly pushed and physically assaulted the officials. Following this, SMC officials went to the Town Police Station to file a complaint. However, for unknown reasons, they later returned without filing an FIR.
SMC’s Response
SMC Enforcement Officer Sushant Sahu stated, “We were sealing the shop because the rent had not been paid for a long time. Some people opposed our action and even pushed and assaulted us.” He confirmed that they had reported the incident to the SMC Commissioner, who directed them to file an FIR.
Commissioner Vedbhushan assured, “An FIR will be filed against those who obstructed officials from performing their duty. We will take action against the people present at the scene.”
