Tensions Rise in Dharchula as Traders’ Union Targets ‘Outsiders’ After Rape Incident

In the wake of a disturbing incident involving the abduction and rape of two minor girls in Dharchula, Uttarakhand, tensions have escalated as the local traders’ union targeted “outsiders,” primarily from the Muslim community, alleging their involvement in unlawful activities.

The Uttarakhand police have taken action against members of the traders’ union in Dharchula town for cancelling the registrations of 91 shopkeepers, most of whom were from outside the area, and instructing them to close their shops and leave. This move follows protests and marches organized by the union against individuals deemed “outsiders” after the rape incident involving two minor girls.

According to reports, the traders’ union identified 91 traders from outside the area, mainly from western Uttar Pradesh, cancelled their registrations, and ordered them to shut shop and vacate Dharchula. The shops of these traders remained closed for several days until the administration intervened, providing security to all shop owners and ensuring their safety.

Dharchula Sub Divisional Magistrate Manjit Singh emphasized that no one was compelled to leave unless they wished to do so. He explained that the decision to deregister traders and ask them to leave stemmed from local anger over the involvement of “outsiders” in illegal activities following the rape incident.

Confirming that those deregistered were predominantly Muslims, Singh underscored the administration’s efforts to maintain peace and security in the area, organizing peacekeeping meetings and registering an FIR against individuals making such calls.

The traders’ union general secretary, Mahesh Garbiyal, defended the union’s actions, alleging that “outsiders” were encroaching on local businesses and posing security threats. He stated that the union had deregistered individuals who arrived after the year 2000, demanding their departure from the area.

The police have registered a suo-moto FIR against six named individuals and 40 unidentified people from the union under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including rioting, criminal intimidation, and deliberate acts intended to outrage religious feelings.

As tensions simmer in Dharchula, the situation remains closely monitored by authorities, with efforts focused on ensuring peace and stability in the region amidst ongoing protests and demands for the departure of “outsiders.”