Seven Arrested After Tractor Attack on Vyasanagar Tahsildar During Illegal Mining Raid

Jajpur, April 19: In a shocking incident, Vyasanagar Tahsildar Prashant Kumar Panda was critically injured after being deliberately run over by a tractor during an anti‑illegal mining raid near Minabazar Chowk in Jajpur district.

The attack occurred when officials attempted to stop unauthorized soil excavation from a pond.

Miscreants tried to flee, and one rammed a tractor into the Tahsildar.

Panda sustained serious injuries and was rushed to Korei CHC, later shifted to SCB Medical College, Cuttack, where he remains in critical but stable condition.

Police have arrested seven individuals, booking them under attempt to murder and other relevant sections at Korei police station.

Authorities also seized five tractors and two JCB machines allegedly used in illegal soil lifting.

This incident highlights the dangers faced by officials during crackdowns on illegal mining and underscores the urgency of stronger enforcement measures in Odisha.