Radiance News
Dharchula, March 21: In the picturesque town of Dharchula, nestled in Uttarakhand’s serene landscapes, a cloud of tension looms as the local traders’ association takes drastic measures against Muslim shopkeepers following a disturbing incident. The Dharchula Vyapar Sangh has sparked controversy by canceling the memberships of 91 traders, predominantly Muslims, and orchestrating a shutdown of their shops over the past three days.
This contentious move stems from an alarming incident involving two traders from Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, who stand accused of luring two minor girls. The accused traders have been charged under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including kidnapping, sexual assault, and outraging the modesty of a woman, along with provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The gravity of the situation has escalated to the extent that the Vyapar Sangh has not only targeted Muslim shopkeepers but has also called for their removal from the town, urging landlords to expel what they term as “outsiders”.
This isn’t the first instance of communal tension gripping the region. Last year, Purola in Uttarkashi district witnessed similar unrest when Hindutva groups demanded a blanket ban on Muslims following an alleged elopement bid involving individuals from different communities.
In response to the escalating conflict, local authorities have intervened, vowing to uphold law and order. Pithoragarh District Magistrate, Reena Joshi, has issued stern warnings, assuring protection to all traders irrespective of their background. “No unlawful activity will be allowed. Traders from outside doing business in the town will be given full protection,” emphasized Joshi.
Despite the prompt rescue of the girls and subsequent arrests of the accused, simmering tensions persist against traders perceived as “outsiders”. As the community grapples with the aftermath of this distressing incident, the focus remains on restoring harmony and safeguarding the livelihoods of all traders, irrespective of religious affiliations, in the tranquil town of Dharchula.
