UP: Yogi Adityanath removes Sonbhadra District Magistrate, SP with immediate effect

Almost a fortnight after 10 people were killed and 28 others injured in firing over land dispute, the Uttar Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has removed the Sonbhadra district magistrate and superintendent of police with immediate effect on Sunday. The development comes following an inquiry into the July 17 massacre at Umbha village in Uttar Pradesh's Sonbhadra district.

Addressing a press conference at his residence, Adityanath said departmental proceedings has been initiated against Sonbhadra District Magistrate Anikt Kumar Agrawal and Superintendent of Police Salmantaj Patil. The action by the UP government follows a report submitted by the additional chief secretary (revenue) on Saturday.

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On July 21, the chief minister met the families of those killed and injured in the clash, promising a slew of steps and completion of inquiry into the case. He also announced an enhanced compensation of Rs 18.5 lakh each for families of the deceased and Rs 2.5 lakh to those injured. 

Ten people, all Gond tribals, were shot dead last month when a village headman, Yagya Dutt, and his supporters allegedly opened fire in an attempt to take possession of a piece of land in Umbha in Sonbhadra district's Ghorawal area. Twenty-eight others were injured, including nine supporters of the village head.