The devotees participating in the procession of Maa Durga immersion passing by Mohammad Bashir’s house were first abused, and when they protested, they were beaten up. The incident was reported from Mahoba district of Uttar Pradesh (UP). It is said that as the procession passed by Bashir’s house, gulal (red powder) being used by the devotees fell on Mohammad Bhura. Police have registered an FIR and taken 3 accused into custody.
The incident took place on Tuesday (24 October) in the Srinagar police station area of Mahoba. Virendra Srivas, belonging to the SC (Scheduled Caste) community, registered a complaint in the matter. According to the complaint, on Tuesday, Virendra was going with his two daughters to immerse the murti of Maa Durga along with the people of the locality. At around 11:50 pm, the procession passed past Bashir’s house in Srinagar market. Bashir’s son Bhura, who was present there, started objecting to the use of Abir-Gulal. Sanu, Pappu, Bhaiya Taylor, Iqbal, Sahil, Aashiq, and Razia also protested along with Bhura.
The complainant further said that all these accused first stopped the procession and abused him. Later all of them started beating the people participating in the procession. Women and girls participating in the procession were also attacked. The attackers are said to be very powerful.
After receiving the complaint, the police named Bhura, Sanu, Pappu, Bhaiya Taylor, Iqbal, Sahil, Aashiq, and Razia. Action has been taken against all of them under sections 147, 323, and 504 of the IPC, along with sections 3(1)(d), 3(1)(d), and 3(2)(v a) of the SC/ST Act.
Hindu organizations alleged that the attackers were carrying swords and sticks. They also threatened to stop the visarjan in the entire district if strict action was not taken against the accused. Members of Hindu organizations gathered outside the police station to protest against the incident and demanded strict action against the accused. Mahoba Superintendent of Police IPS Aparna Gautam said that 3 accused have been detained and are being interrogated.
(Featured Image Source: OpIndia)
