A video of a lone police officer tackling an Islamist mob in Madhya Pradesh’s (MP) Damoh went viral on social media. MP Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has ordered an investigation into a situation in Damoh City where a video showed a Muslim man making provocative remarks outside the local police station. The Damoh Superintendent of Police (SP) suggested using the National Security Act against the man.
The incident stemmed from a dispute between a tailor and his customer over delayed clothing stitching. Allegedly, the tailor was manhandled during this disagreement. Subsequently, around 2000 people gathered at the police station, demanding the arrest of those involved in the altercation. Akram Khan Rain, one of the individuals, threatened violence if action wasn’t taken within 24 hours.
Police detained Akram Khan and two others in response. According to police, the dispute occurred when a customer named Lallu Sharma argued with tailor Ansar Khan over late delivery. It was later alleged that Sharma and his associates ‘mistreated’ a cleric named Hafiz when he intervened in the dispute. Incidentally, manufacturing allegations of blasphemy or religious provocation is a known tool of Islamists looking to settle personal scores with someone.
The crowd demanded the arrest and punishment of those who ‘mistreated’ the cleric. Some individuals tried to calm the situation, but a case was still filed against 30-40 people for the gathering outside Damoh police station. Charges included promoting enmity between groups, unlawful assembly, and rioting.
SP Sunil Tiwari recommended invoking the National Security Act against Akram Khan. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav emphasized the government’s commitment to maintaining peace and promised strict action against wrongdoers.
Damoh Collector Mayank Agrawal initiated a magisterial probe to understand the root cause of the protest and identify responsible parties. Additional District Magistrate Meena Masram leads the investigation to determine if the protest was preplanned. Further investigation into the matter is underway.
