Daijiworld Media Network – Bantwal

Bantwal, May 25: A dispute over clearing a tree branch escalated into a physical altercation, leaving a man injured in Sajeepanadu village under the Bantwal Rural police station limits on the evening of Saturday, May 23.

The complainant, Suresh Rai (52), a resident of Sajeepanadu, stated that a tree branch from a property managed by the accused, Somanath Bhandary, was leaning against the roof of his mother's adjacent house. Despite multiple requests to clear the branch.

Bhandary had allegedly ignored them.

On Saturday evening, when Rai attempted to chop the branch himself, Bhandary arrived at the spot and allegedly attacked him by hurling coconuts and stones, causing him injuries. When Rai's wife intervened, the accused reportedly hurled foul language and issued threats to her. Rai was subsequently admitted to a hospital for treatment.

Following the complaint, the Bantwal Rural police registered a case (Crime No 84/2026) under sections 118(1), 351(2), 118(2), 115(2), 352, and 74 of the BNS and initiated an investigation.

In a related development, the accused, Somanath Bhandary, has filed a counter-complaint alleging that Suresh Rai and his wife assaulted him during the incident. The police are inquiring into the counter-complaint and further investigation is underway.