ASP apologises as Kanwariyas protest over DJ restriction

Hundreds of Kanwariyas from Bilgram in neighbouring Hardoi district ended their protest late Friday night, August21 , after senior district officials apologised to them following an alleged altercation with police over the stopping of their DJ procession, officials said on Saturday, August 22.

The Kanwariyas had gathered at a ground while travelling to the Baba Gauri Shankar temple for ‘jalabhishek’. Police stopped their procession and prevented the DJ from entering the city, citing an overhead electricity line.

The move led to a protest, during which a Kanwariya was allegedly assaulted by a policeman. The protesters raised slogans against the police and demanded action against those responsible.

As tensions mounted, Additional District Magistrate Devendra Singh and Additional Superintendent of Police Ajay Kumar reached the spot and held discussions with the protesters.

Singh apologised on behalf of the administration and assured the Kanwariyas that the allegations of misbehaviour and assault would be investigated. He also said action would be taken against anyone found guilty.

The protest continued for nearly two hours before the Kanwariyas called it off and resumed their journey to the Baba Gauri Shankar temple.

Police have not yet announced any action against the officials allegedly involved in the incident.

(With inputs from PTI)