Chaos in Omkareshwar: Traders Allege Loot of Seized Spices by Police and Kotwars

Omkareshwar, Khandwa, February 14, 2026: Tensions erupted in Omkareshwar during Mahashivratri preparations when traders alleged that police and kotwars looted spices seized by the revenue department. The seized items included packets of chili, coriander, turmeric, and cumin. The situation was defused after three hours following the intervention of Mandhata MLA Narayan Patel, who assured action against the culprits.

Mahashivratri Preparations Spark Controversy

Ahead of the Mahashivratri festival, authorities in Omkareshwar conducted operations to regulate traffic and ensure smooth access for devotees. As part of this, the Tehsildar seized spices from traders selling along the roadside. Traders claimed that they had been operating in the same location for years, and the sudden action caused significant distress.

Alleged Loot of Seized Goods

While en route to complain to MLA Narayan Patel, traders noticed their confiscated spices scattered on the road outside the Tehsil office, allegedly being distributed among police and kotwars themselves. Outraged, the traders staged a protest, which quickly spread to the Municipal Council office and the main road, creating widespread disruption in the area.

Female traders vocally expressed their anger, accusing the authorities responsible for safeguarding the seized goods of being complicit in the alleged looting. The unrest persisted for approximately three hours.

MLA Intervention and Police Response

Traders eventually surrounded Mandhata MLA Narayan Patel at the Municipal Council office, prompting him to call for additional police support. On receiving the call, Station Officer Anokh Singh Sindhia arrived with reinforcements, including 112 police vehicles. With MLA Patel assuring action against those responsible, the traders ended their protest, and order was gradually restored.

This incident highlights the challenges of maintaining law and order during festival periods and has raised concerns about the conduct of officials responsible for the seizure and security of traders’ goods.