Despite Section 163 in force, residents protest in Sirmaur’s Majra over alleged abduction

Defying prohibitory orders under Section 163, a large group of protesters, led by BJP state president Dr Rajeev Bindal, gathered in Sirmaur’s Majra area this morning, demanding justice in an alleged case of abduction involving a minor girl. The incident, which has sparked communal tension, prompted authorities to enforce Section 163 of Bhartiya Nagrik Suksha Sanhita (BNSS) late last night across Majra and adjoining areas of Kiratpur, Meliyon, Fatehpur and Mishrawala.

Despite a ban on the assembly of more than five persons, a sizable crowd — comprising the girl’s family and their supporters — assembled for a sit-in protest. The girl was allegedly taken away by a youth from another community, and while officials have not confirmed it, sources claimed that the girl had been found and may soon meet her parents.

Majra remains heavily fortified, with around 150 police personnel deployed to prevent escalation of tensions. Three DSPs —Manvinder Thakur, Ramakant Thakur and Vidya Negi —along with Paonta Sahib SDM Gunjeet Singh Cheema, are overseeing the situation on the ground. Additional security has been stationed at the local police station and no large gathering is being allowed.

Tensions flared further when Dr Bindal and SDM Cheema clashed verbally at the protest site. Bindal accused the administration of mishandling the issue and questioned the SDM’s approach, including him holding a baton. In response, SDM Cheema challenged the intent of the so-called peaceful protest, pointing to the presence of sticks in the hands of some women protesters.

The situation remains volatile since Friday evening, when a group of protesters bypassed the police and reached the house of the accused youth, triggering stone-pelting from both sides. The authorities continue to monitor the area closely, enforcing Section 163 of BNSS to maintain order amid simmering unrest.

Himachal Tribune