Shops and Markets in Harda Shut Down Following Karni Sena's Bandh Call Amid Protests

A significant shutdown occurred in Harda district, Madhya Pradesh, on Saturday. This was in response to a bandh called by Karni Sena and local Rajput leaders. The protest was against police actions taken against Karni Sena members the previous week. Approximately 5,000 individuals participated in a silent march.

Most businesses and markets remained closed for much of the day. The protest began at the Rajput Hostel, proceeded through the city's main roads, and returned to its starting point. Protesters demanded a judicial investigation and suspension of police involved in the lathi-charge on July 13.

Protest Details and Demands

On July 13, police used lathi-charge during a protest by Karni Sena members. They were demanding custody of a person arrested for cheating in a diamond-related case. Sunil Rajput, the District Karni Sena president, was arrested along with 56 others during a 15-hour road blockade.

The situation intensified when police reportedly entered the Rajput Hostel premises. They allegedly used force against those gathered there, escalating tensions further. Ajay Singh Rajput, president of the Yuva Rajput Parishad, stated that police actions inside the hostel against innocent students and youths were unjustified.

Community Reactions and Allegations

R K Dogne, the local Congress MLA, also criticised the police's actions. Radheshyam Chauhan, president of the District Rajput Parishad, claimed that unarmed community members were brutally assaulted on July 13. He called for a judicial inquiry and immediate suspension of those responsible.

Chauhan also demanded the withdrawal of all false cases filed against community members. The protest highlighted growing tensions between the authorities and local communities over recent incidents.

The events in Harda reflect ongoing unrest and dissatisfaction with law enforcement actions. Community leaders continue to seek justice and accountability for what they perceive as excessive force used by police.

With inputs from PTI