A local youth leader in Raipur municipality of Lakshmipur has been accused of extortion under the guise of lease collection. According to reports, a betel trader named Harun was assaulted and humiliated after refusing to pay the demanded amount. A video of the incident circulated on social media, sparking widespread concern among local traders.

Local sources said Mizan Sardar, who took lease of the municipal Murihata area, has been collecting money from traders while identifying himself as a youth leader. Harun alleged that he was asked to pay increasing sums, from a monthly fee to daily payments, and was beaten when he refused. The accused denied the allegations, claiming he was collecting fees according to the official lease schedule.

Members of the local traders’ association criticized the practice, noting that footpaths cannot legally be leased. The Raipur municipal administrator said he would review the matter before commenting. Traders have urged swift administrative action to stop such extortion practices.