Daijiworld Media Network - Pratapgarh

Pratapgarh, May 19: Tension gripped Pratapgarh after police arrested a 31-year-old man accused of kidnapping and raping a minor girl, triggering protests, vandalism and heavy police deployment in the area.

The accused, identified as Gulzar Ahmed, was arrested near the Udaiyadih Mode bus stand. The incident sparked communal and social tension across the locality.

According to reports, chaos erupted when police were taking the accused to court for judicial custody. A large crowd, along with activists of Bajrang Dal, allegedly intercepted the police vehicle and attempted to drag the accused out of the jeep to assault him.

Police personnel acted swiftly and managed to protect the accused before moving him away from the spot.

Calling the case one of “Love Jihad”, Bajrang Dal activists staged protests and surrounded the Patti Kotwali police station while raising slogans.

Meanwhile, sections of the crowd allegedly targeted the accused’s shop in Patti market, pelting stones and vandalising the premises. The unrest led to panic in the market area, forcing several shops to shut down.

To control the situation and maintain law and order, the administration launched a crackdown at the spot. A bulldozer was brought in and the tin shed and shutter of Gulzar Ahmed’s shop were demolished. Authorities later sealed the commercial property.

Police said the minor survivor was rescued safely on May 11. Following her recovery, a case was registered against the accused under provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, kidnapping charges and other relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Additional Superintendent of Police Alok Kumar said the situation in Patti town was currently under control. A heavy police force has been deployed in the area and regular patrols are being conducted to prevent any further untoward incidents and maintain peace.