PNS | HARIDWAR
Gurjar leaders have given two days to the police and the administration in the Khanpur area of Haridwar district to take appropriate action against both parties involved in the conflict between former MLA Kunwar Pranav Singh ‘Champion’ and Khanpur MLA Umesh Kumar. All India Gurjar Mahasabha’s national vice president, Chaudhary Virendra Singh and other leaders have given the administration two days to act, failing which they have threatened to launch a large-scale protest on February 5. The controversy erupted after Champion and his supporters were sent to jail, which sparked outrage among his community and followers.
Despite the cancellation of a Mahapanchayat planned in Laksar on Wednesday, large crowds began gathering in Landhaura early morning. Anticipating unrest, the police had barricaded all routes leading to Rang Mahal. The superintendent of police (Rural) Shekhar Chand Suyal stated, “Around 1,500 to 2,000 people had gathered and all necessary security arrangements were made in advance. Several barricades were placed, and a heavy police force was deployed. When the crowd began to swell, roads were also diverted.” The joint magistrate of Roorkee Ashish Mishra said, “The entire event was closely monitored and authorities, including the Tehsildar, Patwari and police personnel, were present in large numbers to ensure law and order.”
However, protesters still managed to break through the barricades and reached the gates of the palace. A brief clash ensued between the demonstrators and the police, forcing the authorities to eventually open the gates of the palace. Inside the premises, Gurjar leaders and supporters demanded the immediate release of Champion and the removal of charges against him. The leaders also urged their community members to boycott the BJP in the upcoming Delhi elections, citing unfair treatment. The gates of Rang Mahal were later opened to allow the leaders to address the gathering where Gurjar leaders warned to hold a protest on February 5.
Meanwhile in a related development, MLA Umesh Sharma has given an emotional appeal to people to end hostilities and maintain social harmony.
