In a dramatic escalation of tensions in Uttarkashi, over 200 individuals have been booked for violence during a protest rally led by the Sanyukt Hindu Sangathan on October 24, 2024. The rally, which was initially peaceful, turned violent as clashes broke out between the protesters and the police. The incident has sparked widespread concern across the district, with several injured, including both law enforcement officers and demonstrators.

The Protest: A Call for Mosque Demolition

The protest began early Thursday morning when members of the Sanyukt Hindu Sangathan gathered to demand the demolition of a mosque in the Barahat area. Their contention was that the mosque had been illegally constructed on government land, a claim that has ignited passionate debate across the community.

As the protesters assembled on the Gangotri National Highway, tensions quickly rose when they sat down for a dharna and began reciting the ‘Hanuman Chalisa.’ The mood turned more aggressive as protesters attempted to breach barricades set up by the police. According to local authorities, this action triggered a violent altercation.

Clash Between Police and Protesters: A Dangerous Escalation

The situation deteriorated rapidly as some protesters began throwing stones at the police, prompting law enforcement to deploy tear gas and later engage in a lathicharge to disperse the crowd. In the ensuing chaos, 27 people, including seven police officers, were injured. Among the injured were also several protesters who had been caught in the scuffle. Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with both sides suffering casualties from the ensuing violence.

“Despite our efforts to manage the crowd peacefully, the situation escalated when the protesters ignored the barricades and became violent,” said Uttarkashi Kotwali SHO, Amarjeet Singh. “The use of force was necessary to restore order and prevent further damage to public property and ensure the safety of officers and citizens.”

Prohibitory Orders Imposed, District Under Tense Surveillance

In response to the unrest, prohibitory orders were issued under section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and additional police forces were deployed throughout the district to maintain order. Uttarkashi Superintendent of Police Amit Shrivastava confirmed that flag marches were conducted, and sensitive areas remained under strict surveillance.

“Given the scale of the unrest, we have taken proactive measures to prevent the situation from escalating further,” said Shrivastava. “The district remains on high alert, and we are continuing to monitor developments closely.”

The Mosque Dispute: Allegations and Clarifications

At the heart of the protest lies the claim that the mosque in the Barahat area was built illegally on government land. Protest leaders have been vocal in their call for the mosque’s demolition, citing its location on what they believe to be state-owned land.

However, the district administration has firmly rejected these allegations. District Magistrate Meharban Singh Bisht clarified that the mosque was constructed on land belonging to local Muslim community members, and not on government property. Despite these assurances, the situation has remained tense, with community leaders on both sides accusing the other of misrepresentation.

District Response and Bandh Call

The violence prompted district authorities to intervene. District officials, including the DM and SP, conducted a joint tour of the area to assess the situation firsthand. The markets in Uttarkashi remained shut as a precautionary measure following a bandh call issued by the protest group in retaliation to what they perceive as the government's inaction on their demands.

While the bandh disrupted normal activities, including business and transport, authorities have remained resolute in their commitment to preventing further violence and ensuring peace. The situation has called into question the efficacy of local governance in managing such high-stakes communal issues.

A Divided Community

The mosque dispute has exposed deep divisions within the local community, with both sides claiming ownership of the land and its rightful use. Hindu groups argue that the mosque’s presence on what they describe as “public land” is a violation, while Muslim leaders insist that the land was legally purchased and designated for community use. The central government’s silence on the issue has only fueled further mistrust, with both sides awaiting a decisive response from the local administration and courts.

As the region braces for potential further unrest, the need for dialogue and resolution becomes more pressing. The current standoff in Uttarkashi is a stark reminder of the fragility of community relations in sensitive regions and the importance of clear, transparent governance to prevent such issues from escalating into full-blown conflicts.

Authorities Scramble to Restore Peace

With the threat of further protests looming, authorities have called for calm and urged both communities to resolve their grievances through peaceful dialogue. As tensions continue to simmer in Uttarkashi, the focus will be on the police’s handling of future demonstrations and whether the district can avoid another outbreak of violence. Local leaders from various communities are being encouraged to come forward and mediate to ensure that the situation does not spiral further out of control.

My India Times will continue to monitor this developing story, providing readers with the latest updates on the ongoing protests, police response, and any further political developments. As the investigation into the incident unfolds, all eyes will remain on Uttarkashi, awaiting an outcome that can bring lasting peace to this troubled region.