3 youths arrested for assaulting students, hurling casteist slurs
The police have arrested three youths for assaulting and hurling caste-based slurs at two ITI students at the Sector 5 bus stand on Thursday.
The suspects have been identified as Sahil and Mohit, both residents of Mauli village, and Aryan, a resident of Barwala. All three are approximately 20 years of age.
In a complaint to the police, Harsh and Sarvjeet, residents of Naggla village in Panchkula district, stated that while they were at the bus stand, a group of young men approached them, assaulted them and hurled caste-based slurs. The assailants allegedly wanted Harsh to delete a story he had posted on Instagram, which showed members of the SC community gathered at the Ravidas temple. On refusal to delete the video, the suspects abused and physically attacked them.
On receiving information about the incident, the police reached the spot, but the suspects had already fled by then. Later, the police arrested three of the youths from Barwala. They were produced in court today, which remanded them in judicial custody.
A case was registered under Sections 115, 190, 191(2), and 351(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Sahil and Aryan were also charged under Sections 3(1)(a) and 3(2)(va) of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
Meanwhile, the police appealed to the public to maintain peace and harmony and warned against the use of casteist or offensive language, especially in connection with the Mauli dispute. The Mauli incident took place roughly 26 days ago when a Dalit groom’s wedding procession was allegedly stopped, leading to widespread outrage among the community. This triggered continuous demonstrations by members of the SC community, who gathered in large numbers at the local Ravidas temple, demanding justice.
The police have implemented special measures to maintain peace and reinforce security arrangements at Mauli village. To deal with any potential unrest or tension, over 120 police personnel, including female officers, have been deployed in the village. The cops have been equipped with anti-riot gear to ensure prompt action in case of any emergency.
To further strengthen surveillance, five permanent checkpoints have been established within the village. Additionally, 12 CCTV cameras have been installed to monitor the situation round-the-clock. To enhance transparency and accountability, police personnel have also been equipped with five body-worn cameras to closely track all activities. A special tear gas unit has also been stationed, prepared to intervene if required.
Chandigarh