Police disperse tribal protesters ahead of 'Hul Diwas' event
On June 30, police and tribal protesters clashed in Bhognadih, Jharkhand, after authorities took down a stage locals set up to celebrate Hul Diwas—a day honoring the 1855 Santhal rebellion against British rule.
Protesters wanted permission to hold their own event, but tensions escalated when members of the Sido-Kanhu Murmu Hul Foundation locked a park with tribal statues.
The standoff turned violent, leaving six police officers injured by bows and arrows.
Despite this, the official government function went ahead as planned.
Incident highlights ongoing struggles over tribal identity, rights in Jharkhand
This incident has sparked strong reactions from political leaders—Jharkhand BJP chief Babulal Marandi even called it reminiscent of "colonial oppression."
State ministers are talking about possible conspiracies behind the unrest.
At its core, the clash highlights ongoing struggles over tribal identity and rights in Jharkhand.
For many young people in the state, Hul Diwas isn't just history—it's about cultural pride and being heard today.