Patna: A youth allegedly attempted to set himself on fire during an anti-encroachment drive along NH-20 in Nawada district on Saturday, claiming that authorities were demolishing his house without proper notice or compensation. The situation was brought under control after officials and local residents intervened.The incident occurred at Farha village under Nemdarganj police station area during an encroachment removal operation being carried out on the basis of a court order. The youth, identified as Rajesh Kumar, allegedly poured petrol on himelf to protest the proposed demolition of his house and property.Rajesh alleged that he had neither been served adequate notice nor paid compensation for the land. He claimed that despite visiting govt offices for nearly three years and repeatedly submitting property-related documents, his grievances remained unresolved.He maintained that the disputed land belonged to him and said he would not allow the demolition to proceed without compensation and a satisfactory assurance from the administration.Rajesh also levelled allegations against officials involved in the land acquisition process, though these could not be verified.Nemdarganj SHO Ranjeet Kumar said the incident occurred amid a large-scale anti-encroachment drive being conducted in compliance with court directions. According to him, the administration is clearing encroachments along nearly 45km of the NH-20 corridor, where residents at several locations have raised concerns over compensation and the notice process.The SHO said the situation was defused after police intervention.Local residents alleged that several affected families had not received adequate information regarding the demolition drive and compensation procedures. However, the administration maintained that notices were being issued in accordance with rules.
