Angered over police continuing to enforce prohibitory order under section 144 in landhaura in Haridwar district, BJP leader and former MlA Pranav Singh ‘Champion’ said if he is stopped from entering Rang Mahal, his residence, he would ask his followers to take up arms against the police.
Notably, landhaura is still reportedly tense after arson and stone-pelting occurred on June 1 in reaction to the former MlA’s uncle allegedly throwing some religious books around while vacating a shop owned by the BJP leader. His residence was pelted with stones and several cars were torched by an irate mob. His uncle was arrested too. Sources state that though the situation is under control an undercurrent of tension is still prevailing in the area.
The District Magistrate said that ‘Champion’ is free to go to his house, but his supporters would be stopped if they come too, the area being under section 144.
Speaking to the media persons on Tuesday, ‘Champion’ said, “The arrest of my uncle was wrong. Police and the CM should be ashamed of arresting an elderly person who is innocent,” he said.
Warning that the situation might get worse unless police and administration withdraw the repressive measures, he said things might go the Muzaffarnagar way.
Known for his inclination to spit fire, he said Uttarakhand police were “Naamard” (Unmanly). Giving a word of caution, Champion said, “If the police do not correct their ways things would be driven to civil war like situation and the holy city would turn Muzaffarnagar. However, I am against things precipitating this way. Had I wanted I would have called thousands of my supporters on the day the incident occurred.”