1 Arrested After Video Shows Holi Revellers Harassing Muslim Family in UP’s Bijnor

Bijnor: A group of Holi revellers were caught on camera harassing a Muslim man and two women riding a bike in Bijnor. The video, which went viral on social media, sparked outrage and led to the arrest of one person and the detention of three minors.

The video depicts the trio being surrounded by youngsters who throw water at the women with a hose despite their protests. The harassment escalates as buckets of water are dumped on them, and colours are smeared forcefully on the man and one of the women.

A disturbing justification for the act is heard in the video, with someone claiming it to be a “70-year-old tradition.” The ordeal finally ends as the group lets them go while raising religious slogans.

Taking swift action upon the video’s virality, Bijnor police chief Neeraj Kumar Jadaun ordered an investigation. The probe traced the incident to the Dhampur police station area, and with the help of the video, the authorities identified the culprits.

#BijnorPolice
थाना धामपुर पुलिस ने मु0अ0सं0 132/2024 धारा 147/341/323/504/509/354 भादवि से सम्बन्धित एक अभियुक्त को गिरफ्तार किया गया तथा 03 साथी बाल अपचारियों को पुलिस अभिरक्षा में लिया गया।#UPPolice pic.twitter.com/iE9sB4aWSe

— Bijnor Police (@bijnorpolice) March 24, 2024

A case has been registered against the accused under relevant sections, including wrongful restraint, causing hurt, and assault on a woman. One individual, identified as Aniruddh, has been arrested, while three juveniles have been detained.

In a public video message, Bijnor police official Neeraj Jadaun urged people to celebrate Holi with respect. “We strongly discourage forceful application of colours,” he said. “The police will take strict legal action against anyone who violates the law.”