THE administration has imposed Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) in sensitive pockets of Koriya district following a deadly arson attack in Naugai village that claimed three lives and triggered tension in the region. Koriya Collector Roktima Yadav is reported to have issued the order to maintain law and order in the aftermath of the violence that erupted under the Sonhat police station limits. The tragic incident occurred late on Tuesday night when five persons travelling in a vehicle were allegedly attacked and set ablaze after petrol was poured on the car. One victim identified as Lalla Singh died on the spot, while two others later succumbed to burn injuries during treatment. Two injured persons continue to undergo medical treatment.

 

The other deceased have been identified as supporters of local BJP leader Lalla Singh. The incident has sparked widespread outrage including demands of capital punishment. The district administration has enforced Section 163 at Mahalpara in Baikunthpur, where Lalla Singh resided, as well as at the Naugai incident site and his crusher premises in Katgodi. The prohibitory orders ban unlawful assembly, demonstrations and activities that could disturb public peace. Authorities said the restrictions were necessary to prevent any escalation of the situation. Security has been tightened across the region as administration seeks to prevent any untoward incident and restore normalcy.