Mungeli, Chhattisgarh | A large-scale protest led by local traders brought commercial activities to a standstill in Jarhagaon Nagar Panchayat of Mungeli district, Chhattisgarh, on Friday. Under the banner of the Atal Vyapari Kalyan Samiti (Atal Traders Welfare Committee), traders closed their shops and staged a sit-in demonstration, demanding the immediate suspension of Chief Municipal Officer (CMO) Shubham Baktani and a high-level investigation into his functioning.
The protesting traders alleged that several long-pending issues affecting the local business community have remained unresolved for years despite repeated complaints to municipal authorities.
Long-Pending Lease Deeds and Property Transfer Cases
According to the traders, a formal complaint regarding alleged irregularities in shop allotments, lease deed renewals, and property transfer (mutation) cases was submitted during a public grievance hearing (Jan Darshan) on April 28, 2026. However, they claim no significant action has been taken so far.
The traders stated that the mutation process for several shops in the market complex has remained pending for nearly five years, creating administrative hurdles and financial uncertainty for business owners.
Road Construction Project Allegedly Damaged Shops
One of the major concerns raised during the protest was the impact of a recent road construction project. Traders alleged that approximately six shops were adversely affected by the project, rendering them partially or completely unusable.
Despite submitting multiple complaints to the local administration, affected shop owners claim they have not received compensation, rehabilitation, or any concrete solution. They argue that the situation has directly affected their livelihoods and business operations.
Lack of Basic Civic Amenities Sparks Anger
Protesters also highlighted the absence of essential public facilities in the market area and nearby bus stand. They pointed to the lack of public toilets, urinals, and safe drinking water facilities, stating that these shortcomings inconvenience both traders and visitors on a daily basis.
The business community further questioned why municipal authorities continue to collect taxes and fees while allegedly failing to provide adequate public services.
In addition, traders criticized the condition of local civic infrastructure, citing problems such as:
- Poor sanitation and cleanliness
- Inefficient waste management
- Unclean and clogged drainage systems
- Irregular drinking water supply
According to protesters, these issues affect not only the business community but also the broader population of Jarhagaon.
Allegations Against CMO During Market Visit
In a memorandum submitted to authorities, traders alleged that on the evening of June 5, 2026, CMO Shubham Baktani arrived in the market area accompanied by police personnel and attempted to pressure traders into paying pending rent despite unresolved disputes related to lease deeds and property transfers.
The protesters further claimed that traders felt intimidated during the visit and accused the administration of creating an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among shopkeepers.
Six Key Demands Raised by Traders
The protesting traders presented six primary demands before the administration:
- Immediate suspension of CMO Shubham Baktani
- Independent and high-level inquiry into the June 5 incident and other complaints
- Restriction on the officerโs administrative actions until the investigation is completed
- Time-bound resolution of all pending trader-related grievances
- Protection of traders from alleged harassment and coercive administrative measures
- Immediate improvement of basic civic infrastructure and public services
Warning of Intensified Agitation
Leaders of the protest warned that if the administration fails to address their concerns promptly, the movement will be expanded in the coming weeks. They emphasized that traders would continue to pursue their demands through peaceful and democratic means.
The demonstration witnessed participation from a large number of local business owners, including Committee President Gajendra Kumar Jaiswal and Secretary Umesh Sahu, who reiterated their commitment to securing justice and administrative accountability.
Keywords:
Jarhagaon Protest, Mungeli News, Chhattisgarh Traders Protest, CMO Shubham Baktani, Atal Vyapari Kalyan Samiti, Municipal Administration, Lease Deed Dispute, Mutation Cases, Market Shutdown, Civic Amenities Crisis, Trader Demonstration, Local Governance Issues, High-Level Inquiry Demand, Business Community Protest, Chhattisgarh Local News.
