Saturday, 28 SEPTEMBER 2024 | PNS | DEHRADUN
Hundreds of people took to the streets, blocking roads near Ghantaghar in Dehradun on Friday after the police arrested Bajrang Dal leader Vikas Verma. His arrest in the busy Paltan Bazaar sparked massive protests across the city, leading to widespread disruption. He was arrested for his alleged involvement in the vandalism that occurred at the Dehradun railway station late on Thursday. As soon as news of Verma’s arrest spread, traders in Paltan Bazaar began shutting down their shops in solidarity. The number of protesters swelled rapidly, with hundreds of traders and supporters of Hindu organisations joining the demonstration. They blocked traffic at Ghantaghar, causing traffic jams across major roads and effectively bringing the city to a standstill. The traffic remained jammed for at least five hours. Despite police efforts to clear the roads and restore normalcy, the protesters remained adamant, refusing to leave until their demands were met. They criticised the local police, accusing them of bias. They argued that while some members of the minority community involved in the altercation were released, Verma’s arrest was unjust.
In an attempt to ease tensions, police officials issued information at 3 PM, stating that Verma had been released and was headed home from the police station. However, the protesters were not convinced and continued to block the roads at Ghantaghar. After discussions between trader leaders, Bajrang Dal activists and Verma himself, the crowd finally agreed to disperse after 4 PM. Verma arrived at Paltan Bazaar around 5 PM where he was greeted with garlands and a celebratory procession. His supporters celebrated his release through fireworks.
