Jammu & Kashmir: Protests Erupt in Bhaderwah Over Controversial Social Media Post, Internet Services Suspended
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Synopsis
On April 5, protests erupted in Bhaderwah, Jammu & Kashmir, following a controversial social media post by a Hindu group leader. The post triggered communal tensions, prompting authorities to suspend internet services in the area. The SP confirmed that an FIR has been filed against the accused, and calls for peace and communal harmony have been made.
Key Takeaways
- Protests erupted in Bhaderwah over a controversial post.
- Internet services were suspended as a precautionary measure.
- FIR filed against Virender Razdan for communal content.
- Calls for peace and communal harmony amidst tensions.
- Previous incidents have disturbed the peace in the region.
Jammu, April 5 (NationPress) Protests ignited in Bhaderwah, a town in Jammu and Kashmir, on Saturday after a provocative social media post was allegedly made by a leader of a Hindu organization.
In response to the objectionable comment, authorities suspended internet services in Doda’s Bhaderwah area.
The town witnessed protests and a partial shutdown, reflecting its communally sensitive nature.
Superintendent of Police (SP) Vinod Sharma informed reporters that an FIR has been filed against the accused, Virender Razdan, and efforts are being made to apprehend him.
The officer urged residents to uphold peace and communal harmony.
Razdan, who leads the Shri Sanatan Dharam Sabha in Bhaderwah, reportedly shared content that incited communal tensions, angering individuals from both Hindu and Muslim communities.
On Saturday, members of Anjuman-e-Islamia Bhaderwah staged a march from the local Jamia Masjid to the Bhaderwah police station, chanting slogans and calling for the arrest of Razdan for offending the religious sentiments of Muslims.
The protest concluded after the SP assured that appropriate legal action against the accused would be taken.
Despite this, many shops in the town remained closed in response to the Anjuman's call.
"The peaceful protest will persist until the arrest of the culprit. This is not the first time he has made such a controversial statement against our faith. He is a habitual offender and must be addressed according to the law to ensure peace and brotherhood," stated Riyaz Ahmed Najar, president of Anjuman-e-Islamia.
SP Bhaderwah confirmed that a case has been registered under Section 299 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) against Razdan at the Bhaderwah police station, with ongoing efforts to apprehend him.
“I urge everyone to stay calm and foster communal harmony, as the law will take its course. The administration will not tolerate any disturbances,” Sharma added, noting multiple raids are being conducted to capture the suspect.
Officials have announced the suspension of mobile internet services in Bhaderwah and nearby areas as a precaution.
Senior BJP leader and member of the District Development Council (DDC) from Bhadarwah West, Thakur Yudhvir Singh, denounced the "unfortunate post" and clarified that Razdan uploaded the controversial video in his personal capacity, asserting that the Sanatan Dharam Sabha Bhaderwah is not connected to the post.
"An FIR has been lodged against the individual accountable for posting irresponsible content on social media. Legal action will follow. Please remain vigilant and avoid sharing or forwarding messages and videos that promote communal hatred," the Doda Police stated on X.
Bhaderwah is home to a nearly equal mix of Hindu and Muslim populations, and there have been previous attempts by anti-social elements to disrupt peace between the two communities.
