Former MP Dhananjay Singh Booked Over Alleged Road Encroachment in Lucknow

Former Member of Parliament (MP) Dhananjay Singh has been booked by police in connection with an alleged illegal construction that blocked a public road in a residential colony in Lucknow.

The case also involves block pramukh of Maharajganj in Jaunpur district, Vinay Singh, and several others, following a confrontation that allegedly turned violent.

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Police said the incident took place on December 29, Tuesday, when residents objected to the construction of a brick wall on a concrete road frequently used by people living in the colony. The road provides daily access for pedestrians and vehicles, making it a vital route for locals.

Protest Turns Violent After Armed Men Arrive

According to the police complaint, Vinay Singh, who claims to be a relative of Dhananjay Singh and owns a house in the same colony, arrived at the site with a government-provided gunner and 8 to 10 armed men.

Residents alleged that the group tried to intimidate those opposing the construction.

Witnesses claimed Vinay Singh issued death threats and forced some residents to speak to Dhananjay Singh over the phone in an attempt to silence objections to the wall. The presence of firearms escalated tensions, leading to chaos at the protest site.

Local Resident Allegedly Assaulted

The FIR was filed based on a complaint by Kaushal Tiwari, a resident of the colony. He alleged that Vinay Singh and his associates brandished weapons and threatened protesters with dire consequences.

The complaint further stated that a government gunner accompanying Vinay Singh allegedly used caste-based slurs against a local resident named Ramu.

Vinay Singh reportedly charged toward Ramu with a rifle and struck him, causing him to collapse and lose consciousness. The injured man was later provided medical assistance.

FIR Registered, Police Action Taken

Police registered the case at Sushant Golf City police station against Dhananjay Singh, Vinay Singh, one named individual, and 8 to 10 unidentified persons.

The charges include sections related to rioting while armed, voluntarily causing hurt, criminal force, and provisions of the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

In a separate administrative move, Station House Officer Upendra Singh was sent to police lines following the incident. Officials said further investigation is underway to establish individual roles and verify allegations made by residents.

Authorities Probe Allegations of Intimidation

Police officials said they are examining whether the road was legally accessible to the public and whether any permissions were granted for construction.

Statements from witnesses and residents are being recorded, while authorities assess the conduct of those involved, including the role of armed personnel.

The case has drawn attention due to the serious nature of the allegations and the involvement of political figures, with residents demanding strict action and protection from intimidation.

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