Violent clash at Newtown metro site leaves 7 injured; 10 workers’ huts torched

At least seven workers were seriously injured and around ten temporary huts were gutted in a violent clash between two groups of labourers at a metro construction site in Kadampukur, Newtown, on Sunday night. The confrontation, which reportedly began as a minor dispute, escalated into a bloody altercation involving rods, shovels and knives before culminating in arson.

Police said the workers were employed by two different contractors, locally known as “Bullet” and “Pratap”, and were residing in adjacent tin-and-tarpaulin shanties near the construction site. As it was a holiday, members of one group were allegedly holding a drinking party when an argument broke out. Within moments, labourers from both sides allegedly engaged in violent attacks, reportedly under the influence of alcohol.

During the chaos, an unruly mob allegedly set fire to the workers’ temporary shelters, reportedly using gas cylinders to intensify the blaze. The flames spread rapidly, leaving the occupants little time to salvage belongings. Important documents and personal savings were destroyed as nearly ten huts were reduced to ashes.

Police from Techno City Police Station and two fire tenders rushed to the spot after receiving information. The fire was brought under control after nearly an hour, but the damage had already been done. Several suspects have been detained as authorities attempt to restore order.

Injured workers recounted the horror of the night. Mangru Mandal said he was suddenly attacked with a shovel, sustaining serious facial injuries. Another worker, Ali Ahmed Ansari, claimed that although he was employed under a third contractor, his hut was also burned in the violence. The incident has raised fresh concerns over security arrangements and rising tensions at major construction sites in Newtown.