Mathura, March 22 – In a major crackdown, the Chhata police in Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh, have arrested 15 alleged offenders for blocking National Highway-19, attacking police personnel, and vandalizing vehicles following the death of a vigilante in a road accident, officials said on Sunday.
According to the police, the incident occurred on March 21 at around 11:30 a.m. when Chandrashekhar, popularly known as "Farsa Wale Baba," a 58-year-old resident of Ajnojh village under the Barsana Police Station, died in a road accident in the Kosi Kalan area.
Shortly after the accident, a group of people gathered and placed the body on NH-19 near Chhata, blocking the busy highway and severely disrupting vehicular traffic. The protest quickly turned violent as the mob allegedly opened fire, pelted stones at police personnel and members of cow protection groups, and damaged police vehicles.
Police officials said the situation quickly escalated, causing panic in the area and causing significant inconvenience to commuters. Additional forces were rushed to the scene to control the situation and clear the highway.
Acting swiftly, the Chhata police launched a coordinated operation and arrested 15 accused involved in the violence. The arrests were made on Sunday from the Shergarh Tiraha area.
During the operation, police recovered several items used in the incident, including sticks, bricks, stones, and illegal .315 and .312 bore country-made cartridges, from the possession of the accused.
A case has been registered at the Chhata Police Station under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with provisions related to rioting, attempt to murder, obstruction of public way, and damage to public property. The accused are being produced before a competent court for further legal action.
Police officials confirmed that the situation is now under control. They also warned that strict action will be taken against those attempting to disturb law and order.
Authorities reiterated their appeal to the public to maintain peace and resolve grievances through lawful means.