Heavy police deployed amid rising tension between communities; calls for strict action against offenders
NEW DELHI – Tension gripped the streets of Usmanpur in North-West Delhi on Sunday after the desecration of the Islamic flag by two Hindu youths sparked outrage among the Muslim community. The incident occurred in a locality densely populated by Muslims, already considered religiously sensitive due to past unrest.
Residents expressed deep anger over the act. “We feel hurt and humiliated by this blatant disrespect to our faith,” said Imran Qureshi, a community elder. “Such behaviour cannot be tolerated, and the law must act firmly against these youths.”
According to Delhi Police, the situation escalated swiftly after news of the desecration spread. A heavy police presence was deployed to prevent clashes between communities. “Security arrangements in Usmanpur have been tightened, and the situation is currently under control,” a senior police officer confirmed.
Both accused youths have been arrested, and legal proceedings are underway. “We are ensuring that justice is served without delay,” said the officer. Residents of the area, however, insist that strict action is necessary to maintain communal harmony. “Arresting them is just the first step. There must be severe consequences to deter such acts in the future,” said Fatima Begum, a resident.
Usmanpur has a history of communal sensitivity. The area was severely affected during the Delhi riots of 2020, in which 53 people, a majority of them Muslims, lost their lives. More than 500 people were injured in the violence, which weakened religious harmony and left lasting scars in the community.
The incident comes shortly after the recent Ganesh Chaturthi and Eid-e-Miladun Nabi celebrations, periods during which authorities are particularly alert due to the potential for communal tension. “We urge all communities to maintain peace. However, acts that disrespect religious symbols of any community are unacceptable,” said a police spokesperson.
Residents warned that any leniency could provoke unrest. “Our faith and identity are sacred. We cannot allow such incidents to be ignored,” said Mohammad Rizwan, another community member. “We demand the authorities uphold justice swiftly and fairly.”
The Delhi Police continue to monitor the area closely, emphasising that maintaining law and order is their priority. Authorities have assured that further preventive measures will be taken to avoid escalation.
This latest episode highlights the ongoing fragility of communal relations in Usmanpur. While legal action has begun, the Muslim community continues to call for justice and accountability to ensure that such incidents are not repeated.
