Why was the Tazia procession in Rajasthan cancelled amid rising tensions?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Tazia procession in Jahazpur has been cancelled due to safety concerns.
- The family of the murder victim demands significant compensation.
- Local authorities are responding to the unrest with increased police presence.
- The incident has highlighted ongoing societal tensions in the region.
- Calls for justice and accountability are prominent among community leaders.
Jaipur, July 5 (NationPress) Protests persist in Jahazpur town of Bhilwara district in Rajasthan on Saturday after a youth was brutally murdered by a mob.
The bereaved family is demanding Rs 1 crore in compensation and punitive action against the homes of those accused. In response to escalating tensions, the local administration has instituted restrictions and cancelled the Tazia procession planned for July 5 and 6, coinciding with Muharram.
Since Saturday, the family has been protesting outside the government hospital in Jahazpur. The Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Jahazpur has officially rescinded permission for the Tazia processions, citing concerns regarding law and order.
A total ban has been implemented on the processions for both days. Police reports indicate that the tragic incident took place on Friday around 7:30 PM in the Takiya Masjid area of Jahazpur.
Four youths—Sitaram, Sikandar, Dilkhush, and Deepak—from the Chhavni area in Tonk had traveled to Jahazpur by car to attend a family function at Sikandar's sister's home.
While departing from the main market, their vehicle accidentally collided with a handcart, sparking a confrontation with the cart owner. This quickly escalated, drawing a crowd of approximately 20 individuals who began to assault the group.
Sitaram, aged 25, was forcibly removed from the car, severely beaten, and left on the road, where he tragically succumbed to his injuries on the scene. In response, Jahazpur observed a complete shutdown on Saturday.
A murder case has been lodged against 16 identified individuals and 20 others who remain unidentified. Police contingents from 10 neighboring stations have been dispatched to avert further unrest.
Hari Nand Kahar, state leader of the Kewat Kahar Samaj, condemned the brutal murder of Sitaram.
“This atrocious act must be condemned unequivocally. The perpetrators must face severe punishment. The victim's family is impoverished—his father has passed away, leaving his elderly mother entirely reliant on him,” he stated.
Nand Kahar emphasized that the family deserves Rs 1 crore in compensation and a government job for one family member, advocating for an investigation by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and a trial in a fast-track court.
Bhilwara MP Damodar Agarwal acknowledged the seriousness of the incident and the societal outrage it has incited.
“The police are actively pursuing the criminals. We find ourselves in a state of unrest. It is crucial for people to maintain peace,” he remarked.