Journalist Seriously Injured After Alleged Attack Over Illegal Mining Report in Mathura

Mathura, July 14: A journalist and RTI activist was allegedly attacked by suspected illegal mining operators in Mathura’s Farah police station area after publishing a report and sharing a video highlighting alleged illegal mining activities. The victim was reportedly chased for nearly three kilometres before being knocked off his motorcycle and assaulted with sticks, leaving him critically injured.

The injured journalist, identified as Girdhari Lal Sharma, a resident of Kavayla village in the Farah area, was first admitted to the Farah Community Health Centre (CHC). Considering the seriousness of his injuries, doctors referred him to the District Hospital and later to SN Medical College, Agra for advanced treatment.

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Motorcycle Chased for Nearly Three Kilometres

According to the information available, the incident took place at around 10 pm on Friday when Sharma was returning to his village from Farah town. While travelling on Parkham Road, occupants of a Swift car allegedly attempted to stop his motorcycle.

When he continued riding, the occupants allegedly chased him for approximately three kilometres before intentionally hitting his motorcycle with their vehicle. The impact caused him to fall onto the road.

Alleged Assault After Collision

After the collision, the assailants allegedly attacked Sharma with sticks, causing serious injuries. According to the complaint, the attackers fled the scene after believing he had died.

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After regaining consciousness, Sharma reportedly contacted his family members and fellow journalists, who reached the spot and shifted him to Farah CHC before he was referred for higher medical treatment.

Victim Links Attack to Illegal Mining Exposure

According to the victim, he had recorded and circulated a video nearly one month ago highlighting alleged illegal mining activities in the area. He claimed that administrative action following the viral video resulted in the seizure of two tractor-trolleys allegedly involved in illegal mining.

Sharma has alleged that those involved in the illegal mining operation had been looking for him since then. He further claimed that the attackers warned him that sharing the video with authorities would have consequences.

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Questions Raised Over Police Response

The victim has also alleged that information about the incident was immediately conveyed to the Parkham Police Outpost. However, instead of taking immediate action, he claimed that he was advised to contact the emergency helpline. Police reportedly reached the scene only after local journalists informed senior officials.

Case Registered Against Five Accused

Police said that an FIR has been registered against three named accused and two unidentified persons. Efforts are underway to identify and arrest all those involved in the alleged attack.

The incident has triggered strong reactions among journalist organisations in Mathura. Members of the media fraternity have demanded strict legal action against the accused and adequate security for the injured journalist.