TNR News Network
DHARAMSHALA: A case has been registered against Himachal Pradesh BJP president Rajeev Bindal, Paonta Sahib MLA Sukh Ram Chaudhary and around 50 others for violating Section 163 of the CrPC in the wake of protests following an alleged abduction involving a minor girl.
The protest, held in the Majra area of Sirmaur district on Saturday (June 14, 2025), defied prohibitory orders that were put in place to maintain peace in the region.
The situation stems from a case filed earlier this month regarding the disappearance of a minor Hindu girl, reportedly with a youth from the Muslim community, an incident that has stirred communal tensions in the area and allegation of love jihad.
Protest turned volatile despite curbs
Authorities had imposed Section 163 across five villages under the Majra police station to prevent the escalation of unrest after the incident came to light. The order prohibited gatherings of five or more people in sensitive zones.
However, on Saturday, Rajeev Bindal led a protest march to the Majra police station, where demonstrators staged a sit-in and raised slogans. Despite the restrictions, a sizable crowd gathered, prompting the police to file an FIR against the BJP leaders and others for breaching the legal curbs.
Flashpoint between Bindal and SDM Cheema
During the protest, a heated argument broke out between Rajeev Bindal and Sub-Divisional Magistrate Gunjit Cheema. The BJP chief criticised the SDM for allegedly worsening the situation the previous day, questioning his decision to carry a stick while confronting the crowd.
Bindal asserted, “You are an officer of the administration, not part of the mob. Why were you holding a stick yesterday?” In response, SDM Cheema defended his actions, citing security concerns due to many in the crowd reportedly carrying weapons. Some women protestors, however, denied being armed.
Following the exchange, Cheema left the protest site while police officials worked to de-escalate the situation.
Police recover minor, maintain tight vigil
On Sunday, senior police officials confirmed that the missing girl had been traced to Saha in Haryana’s Ambala district and was safely recovered. The accused in the case has been identified as Mohsin Ali from Keeratpur.
Her statement is scheduled to be recorded in court on Monday. The police have assured that the investigation is progressing and that all those involved, including those who pelted stones during earlier confrontations, are being identified.
