TFP Bureau, Raipur, June 25, 2024: Balodabazar Collector Shri Deepak Soni and Superintendent of Police Shri Vijay Agrawal jointly addressed a press conference on Monday, revealing significant updates on the arson incident at the Collectorate in Balodabazar district headquarters.
Collector Soni estimated the damage at nearly Rs 12 crore, encompassing the District Joint Office Building, District Panchayat Office, District Election Office, Tehsil and Registration Office Building, as well as numerous vehicles, equipment, and furniture. He noted that assessments for other damages in the city are ongoing. “Insurance claims for vehicle damages are progressing,” he stated. “Seven to eight vehicle owners have already received compensation, and 23 cases are under process.”
The Collector detailed that approximately 240 private and government vehicles were affected, including 31 completely burnt four-wheelers and 60 two-wheelers, alongside 27 damaged four-wheelers and 122 two-wheelers. “Uninsured private vehicles are currently being assessed,” he added, mentioning the formation of a victim relief committee to support those affected.
Efforts to restore damaged documents have commenced in several departments, including Police, Excise, and District Planning and Statistics. The District Administration is actively collaborating with the Chamber of Commerce, Civil Society, NGOs, Farmers Organizations, and Petrol Pump Operators, urging them to install adequate CCTV cameras and contribute to restoring peace.
“A district-level social media monitoring team has been established,” Collector Soni announced. “This team operates around the clock to monitor and take action against negative and provocative posts.”
To maintain peace, instructions have been issued for peace committee meetings, and directives have been given to provide lists of rented houses, shops, and contract workers to the nearest police station and relevant departments. A meeting with field officials, secretaries, patwaris, Revenue Inspectors, and sarpanches will be organized soon to address these issues.
Superintendent of Police Shri Vijay Agrawal detailed ongoing investigative efforts, stating, “Comprehensive inquiries are underway to understand all aspects of the incident. So far, 138 individuals have been detained. The social media monitoring team is actively investigating posts, identifying sources, and blocking relevant accounts.”
The conference underscored the district’s commitment to restoring order and supporting affected residents in the wake of the destructive arson attack.
