Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday accused the BJP of inciting communal violence over the Uttam Nagar incident and appealed to Delhi residents not to succumb to “any provocation”.
Gandhi, leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha, while speaking to X, expressed concern over the Uttam Nagar clash and said that people had to pay a heavy price for the violence.
Gandhi wrote, “The people of Uttam Nagar have paid a heavy price for violence, on one hand young Tarun has lost his life, on the other hand the entire family is facing oppression. They do not want more bloodshed. Bloodshed is only wanted by the BJP and its supporters, who do not leave every opportunity to incite violence in the fire of hatred.”
Attacking the India-US trade agreement, Gandhi said the BJP was allegedly creating a situation of Hindu-Muslim violence to divert attention from the issue of handing over the country’s “defence, energy security, food security and strategic sovereignty” to the US.
In the post, he wrote, “They want the country to be embroiled in Hindu-Muslim conflict, so that people cannot ask questions as to why the Prime Minister is being forced to hand over the country’s defence, energy security, food security and strategic sovereignty to the US – and hence, in broad daylight, a riot-like situation is being created once again in the nation’s capital.”
He also appealed to the people of Delhi to spread unity, brotherhood and love and not fall prey to the alleged provocation.
Rahul Gandhi wrote, “Appeal to Delhiites: Do not succumb to any provocation – the strength of the country lies in our unity, brotherhood and love. Connect, connect; unite India.”
Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court has listed two cases seeking police protection in the Uttam Nagar area ahead of Eid, amid fears of possible violence following the recent communal tension.
A public interest litigation (PIL) and another petition have been filed, urging the authorities to ensure law and order and prevent any untoward incident during the festival.
One of the petitioners said that a representation has already been given to Delhi Police demanding preventive measures, but no action has been taken so far.
In these petitions, concerns have been raised regarding alleged threats of violence. Hearing of both the cases is to be held today.
According to police officials, the incident occurred following a dispute over a balloon during Holi celebrations on March 4, which later turned into a violent clash. Tarun was allegedly attacked during the clash and later died of his injuries.
