More than three days after the killing of BJP leader Vinod Kashyap in Uttarakhand’s Dehradun district, fear and tension continue to grip Bairagiwala village. A curfew-like atmosphere remains in the area, with most shops shut and many houses locked from inside.
Residents say normal life has come to a halt after violent clashes erupted following Kashyap’s murder on June 13. According to local reports, only a few shops were partially open, while security personnel continued to patrol the village.
Police officials said strict security arrangements will remain in place due to the sensitive situation.
FIR Against 150 People, Five Arrested So Far
Police have registered a case against around 150 people accused of involvement in the violence that broke out after Kashyap’s death. Authorities said the FIR was lodged based on a complaint filed by police officials.
Kotwal Pradeep Rawat said the case was registered following a complaint by Senior Sub-Inspector Manmohan Singh.
Police also confirmed the arrest of another accused, identified as Imtiaz, son of Shamshuddin, a resident of Lakhanwala in Sahaspur. With this arrest, the total number of people arrested in the case has risen to five.
Officials said raids are continuing to identify and arrest others allegedly involved in the violence.
Murder Followed Irrigation Dispute
According to police, the violence began on the evening of June 13 after a dispute between two groups over irrigation water turned violent in Bairagiwala village. During the clash, BJP leader Vinod Kashyap was allegedly attacked and later died.
Following the murder, angry crowds reportedly created chaos in the village, leading to widespread tension and heavy police deployment.
Senior police and administration officials spent much of Monday speaking with Kashyap’s family members regarding the last rites. After discussions, the family agreed, and the funeral was conducted later in the evening.
Muslim Organisation Alleges Innocent Families Targeted
Amid the tension, the Muslim Seva Sangathan staged a protest outside the District Magistrate’s office, alleging that innocent Muslim families were being unfairly targeted in the aftermath of the violence.
The organisation claimed that bulldozers had been used against homes of people not involved in the clashes and demanded action against officials responsible.
Muslim Seva Sangathan president Naim Qureshi called for an impartial investigation and compensation for Kashyap’s family.
“We demand ₹10 lakh compensation for the deceased leader’s family and a government job for one family member. At the same time, innocent people whose homes were demolished should also get justice,” Qureshi said.
He added, “Several innocent families suffered due to bulldozer action. Officials responsible for wrongful action should also be held accountable.”
Police Warn of Strict Action
Rural Superintendent of Police Pankaj Gairola said strict action would be taken against anyone trying to disturb law and order.
“Those attempting to create unrest and disturb peace will face strict legal action. The matter is being investigated seriously, and no guilty person will be spared,” he said.
Village Leaders Call for Peace
Village head Vicky Kashyap described the incident as “painful and unfortunate” and said efforts were being made to restore peace.
He claimed that many people involved in the violence had come from outside the village. According to him, members of both communities are now standing together with the victim’s family and seeking justice.
“This incident has damaged trust, but people in the village are trying to rebuild brotherhood,” he said.
