Bijnor: A distressing event took place in Uttar Pradesh during the Holi festivities as a Muslim family faced harassment at the hands of a group playing Holi. A video capturing the ordeal went viral, depicting the family, comprising a man and two women, being surrounded by individuals on a bike who proceeded to douse them with water and apply colour against their will.Persistence of harassmentDespite the familys objections, the harassment persisted, escalating to the extent of using buckets to pour water on them. Shockingly, one of the perpetrators attempted to justify their actions by referring to a supposed tradition, drawing widespread criticism and condemnation from the public.Police complaint filedIn response to the outcry, Neeraj Kumar Jadaun, the Police Chief of Bijnor, swiftly intervened, ordering an immediate investigation into the matter. The incident, which occurred in the Dhampur police station area, prompted authorities to identify the culprits through the circulated video.Prompt legal action ensued, with charges filed under various sections, including those related to wrongful restraint, causing hurt, and assaulting women. Aniruddh has been arrested, while three minors have been detained in connection with the incident, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the commitment of law enforcement to uphold justice.Message of dignity and respectIn a video message released by the Bijnor police, Senior Officer Neeraj Jadaun stressed the significance of respecting individuals dignity, particularly during festive occasions like Holi. He emphasized the importance of refraining from forcibly applying colours on others and reiterated the polices unwavering commitment to taking strict action against any violations of the law.The video from Bijnor shows a group of men forcefully applying Holi colours to a Muslim man and two women while harassing them amid religious chants. This is what happens when a chief minister openly flaunts his bigotry towards minorities. pic.twitter.com/qZOJsJN0J0— Ismat Ara (@IsmatAraa) March 24, 2024Previous incidents prompt vigilanceThis incident echoes past instances of harassment during Holi celebrations, such as the harassment of a Japanese woman in Delhi last year. Prompt action by law enforcement agencies underscores the importance of safeguarding the rights and dignity of individuals, irrespective of their nationality or background.
