Locals have expressed unease, especially within the Muslim community, over continued arrests without action against the perpetrators of the violence
Team Clarion
LUCKNOW — Days after large-scale violence broke out in Uttar Pradesh’s Bahraich, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath-led government has ordered a reshuffle of police administration in the affected district. Accordingly, the Station House Officer (SHO) of Hardi police station and in-charge of the Mahsi area have been removed. Circle Officer (CO) Mahsi Rupendra Gaur has been reposted paving the way for CO Ravi Khokhar of Rampur to take over the Mahsi charge.
The action against police officials came as an uneasy calm prevailed in the district with concerns being raised over reports of unilateral arrests targeting one community. The situation in the district has remained tense, though no further violent incidents were reported on Tuesday. However, locals have expressed unease, especially within the Muslim community, over continued arrests without action against the alleged perpetrators of the violence.
While the area remained calm during the day, tensions escalated late on Monday night when miscreants allegedly attempted vandalism and arson in a Muslim neighbourhood. According to reports, a group of individuals vandalised a religious site in Nikwa village, setting fire to nearby huts, before police arrived and brought the situation under control. “Around 10 to 20 people came, shouted offensive slogans, and set fire to some huts,” said the Pradhan of Nikwa village.
Following these incidents, a heavy police force, along with the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), was stationed in the area, keeping a close watch on further developments. Though no immediate arrests of the miscreants were made, the police have reportedly been conducting a series of arrests among Muslims, raising concerns of one-sided action.
The district administration has been working to remove the traces of violence in Mehrajganj, with authorities clearing burnt vehicles and debris using JCB machinery. However, no legal action has yet been taken against those responsible for the vandalism and arson. “The environment remains tense, but the police are doing their best to maintain order,” said a local official who preferred not to be named.
Meanwhile, senior police officials, including Additional Director General (ADG) Amitabh Yash, are supervising security in the district, and four teams from the Special Task Force (STF) have been deployed. In response to the curfew-like conditions, the administration provided a brief one-hour window for residents to purchase daily necessities.
Meanwhile, the family of Ram Gopal Mishra, who was killed during the Bahraich violence, met with the chief minister on Tuesday. Mishra was reportedly shot while attempting to replace a green flag with a saffron one atop a Muslim family’s house. The chief minister assured his family of financial aid, providing Rs 10 lakh and ordering that they be given various government benefits, including an Antyodaya card and Ayushman card. “The government will ensure justice for my father,” said Mishra’s widow, who met with the chief minister alongside BJP MLA Sureshwar Singh from Mehsi.
As tensions continue to simmer, the extent of damage during the Bahraich violence is becoming clearer. According to sources, more than 50 houses were vandalised and set on fire, most belonging to Muslims. Many of these homes now stand empty, with residents fleeing in fear of further violence. Police have increased patrols within a 20 km radius around the affected areas of Hardi and Mehsi, aiming to restore a sense of security.
Despite the heavy police presence, the community remains divided. “We have lost our homes, and no one is being held accountable,” said a local of Mehrajganj, reflecting the frustration of many affected families.
As the situation develops, all eyes are on the administration’s ability to handle the delicate balance between maintaining law and order and ensuring that justice is served for all communities involved.