Tension briefly prevailed in Uttar Pradesh’s Meerut after a religious symbol carrying the name “Radha” was allegedly painted over by a Muslim juice vendor near the Meerut Gate police outpost in the Kotwali Nagar area, prompting protests by members of Hindu organisations.
According to local residents, a religious organisation had taken permission from house and shop owners in several parts of the city to write the name “Radha” as part of a religious awareness campaign. The symbol had been painted on a wall opposite the Meerut Gate police outpost.
On Sunday morning, locals noticed that the symbol had been covered with white paint, leading to anger among residents. Soon after, members of Hindu organisations reached the spot and staged a protest, demanding strict action against the accused.
Police Intervene to Calm Situation
As the situation became tense, Kotwali Nagar Station House Officer (SHO) Manish Chauhan arrived at the spot along with a heavy police force and assured protesters that action would be taken after a proper investigation.
“The matter is being investigated seriously. Whatever facts emerge during the inquiry, strict action will be ensured based on those findings. Under no circumstances will the atmosphere be allowed to deteriorate,” SHO Manish Chauhan said.
Police also got the religious symbol repainted on the wall to calm tensions in the area.
Hindu Groups Demand Strict Action
Members of Hindu organisations demanded a detailed inquiry and sought strict legal action against the accused to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Bajrang Dal co-convener Ritik Tyagi urged police to examine CCTV footage installed in the surrounding area to identify what exactly happened and ensure accountability.
“We want strict action against the accused so that no one dares to repeat such an act,” Tyagi said.
People From Both Communities Gathered at Spot
During the incident, people from the other community also reached the location, increasing tensions for a brief period. However, police managed to bring the situation under control and prevented any escalation.
Several local political and social figures, including BJP leaders and members of Hindu organisations, were present during the protest.
Police said an investigation is underway and authorities are reviewing CCTV footage to determine the sequence of events.
