R-Day violence in UP leaves one dead, Section 144 imposed
Republic Day celebrations in Uttar Pradesh's Kasganj district were marred by violence between two groups which resulted in the death of a one person and injured over 10. Police said that trouble makers from both groups had been detained and that the situation was under control. The district administration has imposed Section 144 of the CrPC in the area to prevent further violence.
Kasganj BJP chief denies his party was involved in violence
"The victim, Chandan Gupta, did not belong to the BJP or any of its affiliated organizations. The Tiranga Yatra was taken out by local residents," claimed BJP's Kasganj district chief, denying any BJP or BJP-related involvement in the clash.
How the violence broke out
Reportedly, around 36 volunteers from the Viswa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and the Akhil Bhartiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) had taken out a "Tiranga yatra" bike rally without requisite permission from the administration. Another community reportedly objected to the rally, a verbal altercation followed, and eventually violence broke out. The parties reportedly threw stones at each other, and there were also reports of firing.
Additional forces have been deployed to maintain order
"The troublemakers are being identified, and stringent action will be initiated against them. The district administration has been able to control the situation so far, but additional forces will be called to ensure that the situation does not worsen," said Additional DG Anand Kumar.
RPF team brought in from 16km to contain violence
The violence triggered an angry mob to go on a rampage, and the mob damaged more than 12 vehicles and property. A team of Reserve Police Force deployed for Republic Day celebrations was brought in from 16km away to contain the violence. Although the mob has dispersed, the situation remains tense in the area, and there's currently a curfew-like situation.
