Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 4 Sep: Dehradun’s Premnagar área has become notorious for open violence on the streets and firing incidents. In yet another incident late last night, a minor dispute between two groups in Kehri village under Premnagar police station escalated into a violent clash on the main highway, leaving several people injured and exposing serious questions over law and order in the area. Within minutes, the quarrel turned into a street battle as both sides attacked each other with sticks, rods, bricks and stones. The incident, which occurred close to Premnagar police station, was captured on videos by the witnesses which have since gone viral on social media, showing dozens of men and women engaged in the fight, hurling bricks and striking blows with sticks. Traffic on the busy highway was disrupted for some time and panic spread among passers-by as a result of this violence.
The Police conceded that the clash left several people injured, who are undergoing treatment at different hospitals, though the exact number of casualties is yet to be confirmed. However, the Police officials added that no written complaint has been lodged by either side so far, but police have taken cognisance of the viral video and begun identifying those involved. SSP Dehradun Pramendra Dobal reached the spot and directed forensic teams to collect evidence. Raipur police registered a case under Section 103(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and further charges may follow.
The officials stated that surveillance footage and informer inputs would lead to identification of suspects, and that appropriate legal action will be taken once facts are established. The incident has once again highlighted the recurring problem of open violence on Dehradun’s streets, particularly in Premnagar area, raising concerns over public safety and the effectiveness of policing in the capital. It may be reminded here that Premnagar and nearby areas have several institutions where a large number of students pursue professional higher education. In the area, there are a large number of PG accommodations also where students stay. A large number of students have been indulging in such violence and firing incidents and many of them have been seen carrying weapons also. Yet, the Police seem to be largely acting only in reaction but no proactive surveillance or vigil is seen on part of the Police which can really deter these elements from indulging in crime.
