Encounters in Uttar Pradesh: Ghaziabad Incident Adds to Rising Tally

Uttar Pradesh's controversial policing strategy of encounters was once again in the spotlight on Tuesday after two men accused of firing at Bollywood actor Disha Patani's Bareilly residence were killed in Ghaziabad. Police officials said the accused opened fire during a raid, prompting retaliation that led to their deaths.

Encounters, often described as "police action in self-defense," have become a defining feature of law enforcement in the state. Since 2017, UP Police claim to have carried out more than 10,000 encounters, killing over 180 alleged criminals and injuring thousands. Authorities argue this method has weakened organized crime networks and restored a sense of security, but critics continue to question the legality and ethics behind these operations.

Civil rights activists have long alleged that many such cases are staged to project a tough-on-crime image. Yet, the state government under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has defended the police, calling encounters an effective tool against gangsters who refuse to surrender.

Notable Encounters in Uttar Pradesh

• Vikas Dubey Encounter (2020): The Kanpur gangster, accused of killing eight policemen, was shot dead after allegedly trying to flee from custody.
• Asad Ahmed Encounter (2023): Son of jailed gangster-politician Atiq Ahmed, Asad was killed in Jhansi along with an aide while allegedly attempting to escape.
• Mukhtar Ansari's Aides (Multiple Operations): Several close aides of the mafia-politician have been killed in different encounters over the years.
• Meerut and Noida Operations (2018-2022): Numerous gang members and repeat offenders linked to robberies and extortions were gunned down.
• Ghaziabad Encounter (2025): Two accused in the Disha Patani house firing case were neutralized after opening fire on police.

While supporters hail these operations as necessary to maintain law and order, critics warn that bypassing the judicial process risks undermining democratic accountability.