Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party of creating conditions resembling riots in Delhi’s Uttam Nagar area following the communal tensions that erupted after the death of 26-year-old Tarun Kumar during Holi celebrations earlier this month.
Gandhi, posting on social media, said the residents of Uttam Nagar have “paid a heavy price for the violence.” He stated, “On one side, a young man, Tarun, lost his life, and on the other, an entire family is facing persecution. These families do not want any more bloodshed, but only the BJP and its ecosystem seem to desire it.”
He further alleged that the ruling party aims to keep the country embroiled in Hindu-Muslim strife to distract the public from questions over national security, energy, and strategic sovereignty. “That is why, in broad daylight, riot-like conditions are being created in the nation’s capital,” Gandhi said, urging Delhi residents not to fall for any provocation.
The Incident That Sparked Tensions
The communal unrest in Uttam Nagar began on March 4 when an 11-year-old girl accidentally threw a water balloon from a building terrace, hitting a Muslim woman standing below. The incident escalated into an argument between two neighbouring families of different religious communities.
During the clash, Tarun Kumar was severely injured and later died, which triggered widespread unrest in the area. Several vehicles were damaged, and some were set on fire during the protests. Police and paramilitary forces were deployed to maintain order.
Muslim residents have expressed concern over threats circulating ahead of Eid, warning that violence could erupt if they attempt to celebrate the festival. The situation has prompted families to leave the area due to fear for their safety.
Calls for Intervention
On Wednesday, Congress MP Mohammad Jawaid wrote to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, raising concerns that Muslims in Uttam Nagar have been facing threats and hate-filled slogans in the lead-up to Eid. Jawaid also highlighted what he perceived as selective police action, which he said was emboldening those trying to disturb communal harmony. “What is unfolding is not an isolated law-and-order issue, but a pattern of targeted hostility that raises serious questions about the state’s ability and willingness to protect all citizens equally,” he said.
A public interest litigation has been filed before the Delhi High Court seeking urgent intervention to prevent communal violence and curb hate speech in the area. On Thursday, the Court directed the police and civil administration to take all necessary measures to ensure that Eid passes peacefully. The Bench emphasized the need for constant vigilance and called on all communities to conduct themselves in a manner that promotes harmony.
Security Measures and Resident Concerns
The Delhi Police has stepped up security in Uttam Nagar, deploying personnel across rooftops, setting up picket points, increasing barricades, and coordinating with Central Armed Police Forces. The heightened security aims to prevent any untoward incidents during Eid prayers and celebrations.
Residents have reported an atmosphere of fear, with several Muslim families leaving the area due to threats of violence. Jameel Ahmad, a long-time resident near Jama Masjid in Uttam Nagar, told The Observer Post, “We were very worried when a large number of people gathered for a condolence meeting for Tarun Kumar. Thankfully, the administration remained alert, and the programme ended peacefully.”
Ahmad noted that the tensions are being fueled by outsiders and inflammatory speeches. “If people from outside do not come here to spoil the atmosphere, there has never been any problem between local residents,” he said.
Videos circulating online, allegedly featuring local leaders calling for Muslims to be prevented from celebrating Eid and warning of a “blood Holi,” have exacerbated fears. Advocate Bilal, another local, said, “Both Hindus and Muslims are feeling scared. Many Muslim tenants and daily wage workers have already left, while permanent residents remain under constant fear.”
Residents also expressed concern over municipal demolition drives that removed shops despite requests for additional time, adding to the tension. Community members are appealing to authorities to ensure proper security so that residents can celebrate Eid without fear. “We only want peace. We want proper security so that people can offer Eid prayers safely and the atmosphere in Uttam Nagar remains calm,” Ahmad said.
Rahul Gandhi’s Message
Through his social media post, Rahul Gandhi urged residents to remain united, stating, “The strength of the country lies in our unity, brotherhood, and love. Bloodshed is what only the BJP and its ecosystem desire, which seizes every opportunity to stoke hatred and violence.”
