Uttarkashi – Police have taken strict action following stone-pelting and clashes during a rally organized by Hindu groups over a mosque dispute in Uttarkashi. FIRs have been filed against eight identified individuals and 200 unnamed persons, with the accused names now publicly known. Charges have been filed under serious sections, including attempted murder (Section 109 of the BNS) and assault on government officials (Section 121(2) of the IPC). Along with these, the accused face 14 additional sections under the Indian Penal Code, while 200 unidentified individuals are also under investigation.
Prohibitory Orders Enforced Under Section 163
On Thursday, tensions rose after a rally was held by a Hindu organization demanding the removal of a mosque allegedly built on government land. To maintain peace, the Uttarkashi administration imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163, restricting gatherings of five or more people, protests, and processions. As of Saturday, the atmosphere remains calm, with police conducting flag marches on Friday evening and Saturday morning.
Superintendent of Police Amit Srivastava explained that conditional permission had been granted for the rally organized by the Sanatan Dharma Protection Union. However, protestors insisted on deviating from the approved route and attempted to remove barricades, resulting in some protestors initiating stone-pelting. Police responded with minimal force to disperse the crowd.
Injuries to Police Personnel
According to Srivastava, eight police officers sustained injuries, with Inspector Ashutosh Singh and Constable Anil Kumar seriously hurt. Some protestors were also injured in the clashes. Srivastava confirmed that peace has since been restored in the area and appealed to the public to cooperate in maintaining order.
Dr. Prem Pokhriyal, Medical Superintendent of Uttarkashi District Hospital, reported that 20 protestors, including two women, were admitted for treatment, with most discharged by the evening. Inspector-in-Charge Amarjeet Singh confirmed that FIRs were registered against eight identified individuals and 200 unnamed individuals in connection with the unrest. Authorities continue to call for public cooperation to uphold peace in the region.
