Bahraich (Uttar Pradesh): The sister of Ramgopal Mishra, a victim of the recent Bahraich violence, has called for the death penalty for those responsible and the demolition of their houses.

Call for Harsh Punishment
In an emotional statement to ANI, Priti, Ramgopal Mishra’s sister, said, "I want the culprits to be punished. He (deceased) was hit by 15 bullets. I want the culprits to be hanged till death and their houses should be demolished."

Family Blames Police Negligence
Pramod Kumar, a relative of Mishra, attributed his death to police negligence and demanded accountability. "This incident happened due to the negligence of police. If we had got protection from the police then this wouldn't have happened... We demand that the culprits should be punished and relevant ex gratia to be given to the wife of Ramgopal Mishra," he stated.

Details of the Incident
Ramgopal Mishra was killed, and several others were injured during a clash between two communities in the Mahasi area, which erupted during a Durga idol immersion procession on Sunday. The police reported that the procession passed through a predominantly Muslim area, leading to a dispute between the groups.

Police Response
Bahraich Superintendent of Police (SP) Vrinda Shukla confirmed the circumstances, stating, "In Mahasi's Maharajganj area, a procession was passing by a Masjid through a Muslim area. The groups argued on some issues. A person from the Hindu community died after bullets were fired at him, and thereafter a tense situation arose."

Shukla added that "at various places, Visarjan was stopped, which some mischievous elements took advantage of and tried to create a disturbance." The police have taken 30 individuals into custody, and a case has been registered. Authorities are actively searching for the main accused, who is currently at large.

Government Action
In light of the violence, police conducted a route march to restore order during the idol immersion. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has addressed the situation, stating that those responsible for disturbing the peace in Bahraich will face strict consequences. "Those who spoil the atmosphere in Mahsi of Bahraich district will not be spared. Safety is guaranteed to all, but instructions have been given to identify the rioters and those whose negligence led to the incident and take strict action against them," he affirmed. The Chief Minister assured that the immersion of idols will proceed as planned, with administration and police officials closely monitoring the situation to maintain peace.

ANI