2 mine workers killed in IED blast in Chhattisgarh’s Narayanpur, 1 hurt

The Improvised Explosive Device was allegedly planted by Naxalites who have been opposing mining in the area.

The Maoists who had been opposing the mining project earlier this year shot dead BJP district deputy chief Sagar Sahu for allegedly encouraging villagers to work in the mines, the police said.

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Two villagers who were on their way to work in an iron ore mine were killed while another sustained injuries when an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) allegedly planted by Naxalites exploded at Amdai hill in Chhattisgarh’s Narayanpur district Friday, officials said.

The blast took place around 7.30 am in the Chhotedongar police station limits after one of the workers accidentally stepped on the pressure IED, said Hemsagar Sidar, additional superintendent of police, Narayanpur district.

The police have identified the deceased as Ritesh Gagda, 21 and Shravan Gagda, 24. “They first found the body of Ritesh. A grievously injured Shravan who was lying near the blast site died on the way to hospital,” the officer said.

The Maoists who had been opposing the mining project earlier this year shot dead BJP district deputy chief Sagar Sahu for allegedly encouraging villagers to work in the mines, the police said.

In the past, several villagers had also protested against the mines. Sahu is said to be targeted by the Maoists as he allegedly had business interests.

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