Rangat, Oct 27: Tension gripped Rangat Bazaar in the aftermath of the devastating fire that gutted several shops on the night of October 25, as public outrage spilled onto the streets following the detention of a key suspect, Ajit, whose alleged role in the incident was captured on CCTV footage.
According to sources, the footage showed Ajit entering one of the shops shortly before the fire broke out. He was later detained for questioning, during which he reportedly confessed to his involvement. As news of his detention spread, hundreds of irate residents gathered outside the Rangat Police Station demanding to see the accused and calling for stringent action.
For security reasons, Ajit was shifted to Bakultala Outpost, while four public representatives were allowed to identify him. The crowd continued to swell through the morning, leading to a massive chakka jam at Rangat Bazaar that brought local movement to a standstill for several hours, allowing only emergency vehicles to pass.
Senior officials including ADM (N&M Andaman) S. Krishna Chaitanya, Assistant Commissioner Vikas Kumar, along with HDPO, BDO, SHO, and Tehsildar, reached the site to pacify the protesters and maintain law and order.
The agitating public put forth three key demands: 1. Permanent removal of the accused’s family from Rangat, alleging their repeated involvement in local disputes and offences. 2. Strict legal action under relevant BNS sections against those responsible for the fire. 3. Immediate compensation and temporary shop arrangements for affected traders who lost their livelihood overnight.
Adding to the tension, one of the victims alleged that Ajit’s brother, Dinesh, had issued threats following the incident. He too was subsequently detained by the police.
A joint meeting between the police, local administration, and affected shop owners was later held at the Rangat Police Station to review law and order, address the victims’ concerns, and discuss the parallel issue of illegal liquor trade in the area.
Meanwhile, Member of Parliament Bishnu Pada Ray also visited Rangat, met the fire victims, and reviewed the rehabilitation measures. He suggested the use of Panchayat shop rooms or vacant land belonging to the Education Department for temporary shop setups until permanent arrangements are made.
Following assurances from the administration of a fair investigation, strict punishment for the guilty, compensation, and immediate rehabilitation, the protesters called off the chakka jam late in the evening.
