Clashes after minor girl’s abduction in Sirmaur

Communal tensions erupted in the Majra police station area of Sirmaur district following the alleged abduction of a minor girl of the majority community, which triggered protests and clashes between two communities.

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The unrest began when a local minor girl from the majority community went missing. Allegations quickly surfaced that a youth from minority community had lured her away, sparking outrage among locals. As news spread, angry residents gathered in protest, demanding the girl’s immediate recovery and strict action against the accused.

Protests turned violent yesterday evening. A crowd gathered near Majra police station and the situation escalated into a confrontation between demonstrators and law enforcement forces. Stones were pelted and police used batons to disperse the mob. In the ensuing clash, three police personnel were injured and some protestors were also hurt.

In response to the unrest, District Magistrate and Deputy Commissioner Priyanka Verma imposed Section 163 of the BNSS in Majra and adjoining areas including Kiratpur, Meliyon, Fatehpur, and Mishrawala. Authorities warned that any violation of this section will attract legal action. Section 163 will remain in force till the night of June 19 to ensure peace and prevent further gatherings.

Despite the ban on assemblies of more than five persons, a sizable crowd comprising the girl’s family and supporters assembled this morning for a sit-in protest under the leadership of BJP state president Rajeev Bindal and MLA Paonta Sahib Sukh Ram Chaudhary.

Amid rising public pressure, the Sirmaur Police intensified their investigation and successfully traced the missing girl to Ambala, Haryana. She was recovered and brought back under police protection.

Bindal condemned the police action during the protests and demanded a thorough investigation into the lathicharge and stone-pelting. He questioned the use of force and called for accountability. MLA Sukh Ram Chaudhary raised concerns over the girl’s safety. He demanded that police protection be provided to girl and her family, given the prevailing tension and potential threat to their security.

Following these political interventions, police and administrative officials assured that orders have been issued to investigate both the violent incident and the use of force.

SP Sirmaur, Nishchint Singh Negi said the girl has been presented before her parents. As per the rules, the girl’s statement will be recorded in front of the magistrate after which further action will be taken.