Efforts are on to compile lists of participants in the CAA/NRC protests, Shaheen Bagh sit-in and the farmers’ stir. Special attention is being paid to those allegedly involved in the 2020 Delhi riots.
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI – Authorities are fearful of heightened communal tension in the violence-prone areas across the country ahead of the ensuing Lok Sabha elections.
In light of this concern, the special branch of Delhi Police has directed all police stations to remain vigilant and ensure peace in areas prone to communal tensions. The directive instructs all police stations to closely monitor individuals involved in anti-CAA/NRC movement and the 2020 Delhi riots.
The advisory to all police stations has been issued in light of the recent developments including the consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the court permitting Hindus to offer prayers in the basement of Gyanvapi Masjid and the demolition of various Muslim religious sites, a report in The Hindustan Times said on Wednesday.
The advisory emphasises the need for precautionary measures to prevent potential incidents, citing concerns that certain elements may seek to disrupt peace, the report said.
Furthermore, the advisory calls for compilation of records of past offenders who have previously disturbed the communal harmony. A senior officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that law enforcement authorities are diligently monitoring the situation to maintain law and order in the city. Additionally, efforts are underway to compile lists of participants in the CAA/NRC protests, Shaheen Bagh sit-in, and farmers’ stir, along with known members of relevant groups, the report said.
Special attention is being paid to individuals allegedly involved in the 2020 Delhi riots, particularly in the Northeast District. Police officials in this district have been tasked with updating lists of approximately 100 troublemakers frequently associated with communal issues or protests, including those who participated in demonstrations in Jafarabad, Selampur, and Yamuna Vihar areas leading up to the February 2020 riots.
It may be noted that a report by the Delhi Minority Commission accused both the Delhi Police and the BJP of involvement in the February 2020 riots. The report, released two years ago by the Delhi Minority Commission, a part of the Delhi government, highlighted instances of police inaction during the riots, particularly in the context of targeted violence against Muslim women who spearheaded the anti-CAA protests.
A fact-finding committee appointed by the Delhi Minority Commission to investigate the riots labeled Delhi Police as “complicit” in the violence, alleging their inaction during the height of the disturbances and biased investigation practices. Additionally, the committee’s report criticised the Delhi government for purportedly failing to adequately rehabilitate victims of the violence.
