Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday met the family of 22-year-old Ram Gopal Mishra, who was killed in the recent violence in Bahraich.

The victim’s family, accompanied by local MLA Sureshvar Singh, expressed their demand for strict action against the culprits, detailing the brutality inflicted upon Ram Gopal.

His wife stated that “blood will be avenged with blood”, emphasising the need for justice. Ram Gopal’s father was seen crying and pleading for justice with folded hands in front of the chief minister.

During the 30-minute meeting in Lucknow, Ram Gopal’s wife, mother, and father were visibly distressed.

Yogi reassured them, stating that justice would be served. He instructed officials to provide assistance to the family and ensured they would not face any hardships.

The CM also inquired about the full details of the incident from the family. He conveyed his condolences, describing the event as unfortunate and reaffirmed that providing justice to the victim’s family is the government’s top priority.

He promised that the culprits of this grievous incident would face severe consequences.

Additionally, the CM announced a compensation package for the family, including Rs 10 lakh, a house under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, an Ayushman card, and a contractual job for the deceased’s wife.

Meanwhile, police have arrested 26 individuals in connection with the Bahraich violence, which resulted in one death.

Bahraich SP Vrinda Shukla’s PRO Shivesh Shukla said that the accused had been sent to jail following medical examinations.

The police have also reopened shops in areas previously affected by violence.

During the unrest, over 50 houses were vandalised, leaving them abandoned.

Increased police patrolling is underway in a 20km radius around Hardi and Mahsi, with police vehicles actively monitoring the area.

Entry to affected neighbourhoods is restricted and requires identification verification.

Sources said that despite a heavy police presence, miscreants vandalised a religious site in Nakwa village late Monday night, attempting to set it on fire. Police intervened promptly, dispersing the troublemakers.

The village head reported that a group of 10 to 15 individuals attempted the arson. Following the incident, a strong police and PAC force was dispatched to restore order.

Currently, the RAF, PAC, and local police are deployed in the affected areas.

DM Monica Rani stated that vandalised homes were being marked for assessment.

To prevent the spread of misinformation, internet services have been suspended in the district until October 16. Senior police officials, including ADG (Law and Order) Amitabh Yash, remain stationed in Bahraich to ensure peace and restore normalcy.