Tribals rally against works on Siromtoli flyover ramp

Ranchi: Members of tribal community took to the streets on Sunday to protest against the resumption of Siromtoli flyover construction, amid heavy deployment of security forces.

The tribal members have been protesting against the construction of a flyover ramp near the Siromtoli Sarna Sthal since January.

The protesters, holding Sarna flags and chanting slogans against the state govt, marched from the Jaypal Singh stadium to the Albert Ekka Chowk, after breaking the barricades set up by the police at the chowk.

The protesters argue that the construction of the flyover ramp will compromise with tribals' identity.

Former MLA from the Mandar constituency, Gangotri Kujur, said, "The construction of the ramp is an attack on tribals' identity and heritage. If someone dares to do so, we will keep on raising our voices until the matter get solved."

"This flyover ramp is going to obstruct the approach way to the Sarna Sthal and create inconveniences to the large number of believers assembled there on festivals. We will not that happen at any cost. We are demanding a fair hearing and for the government to reconsider this project. It should not come at the expense of our heritage," said former minister Geetashree Oraon.

A source in the police said security personnel were deployed to ensure law and order in the area.