Patwari attacked while trying to stop illegal mining in Khandwa

Indore: A patwari was attacked while attempting to stop illegal mining on government land in Khandwa district’s Jawar police station area.The incident occurred on Sunday in Bhakrada village. The patwari, Mayank Phuleria, in charge of Halka Number 53, reached the site with village Kotwar following reports of illegal excavation on government drain land. He found that an excavator and four tractor-trolleys were being used to mine fine gravel (murum) for a nearby poultry centre.As the patwari initiated action, a tractor driver, identified as Kundan Singh, allegedly attempted to run him over with the vehicle. Phuleria managed to save himself by fleeing the spot. While the tractor drivers escaped, the excavator got stuck in a pit and was abandoned at the scene.Khandwa tehsildar Mahesh Solanki told TOI that the abandoned excavator has been seized and placed in the custody of Jawar police. A detailed report has been submitted to the Collector, Superintendent of Police, and SDM.The police have registered an FIR against four persons and other unknown drivers under relevant sections of BNS and Mines and Minerals Act. Charges include obstructing official work and attempt to commit culpable homicide.