Violence in Agra after VHP leader attacked over parking dispute

A parking dispute in Agra, involving a Vishwa Hindu Parishad leader, led to violence on Tuesday night. The incident occurred in the busy market area of Phulatti, under Kotwali police station. VHP organisational secretary Manoj Kumar claimed he had parked his car in front of a marriage band outlet and was attacked by the owner. This led to retaliation by VHP workers, after which shops were hurriedly closed.

Later, a VHP member, Raman Singh, lodged an FIR against the owner of Sudhir Band and his sons at the Kotwali police station. They were charged under various sections of the IPC for attempting to kill Kumar, opening fire and committing dacoity. All the accused are absconding, said cops, adding that no cross-FIR was filed.

“We have received complaint only from one side. A case has been registered against the band owner and efforts are on to nab the accused. Meanwhile, other facts related to the case, including retaliation by VHP activists, are also being investigated,” said PN Sharma, in-charge Kotwali police station.

Apart from band owner Sudir Kumar, the others named in the FIR are his son Rikki and two others -- Sunny and Bittan.

Reportedly, when Kumar parked his car in front of Sudhir Band, the shop staff asked the driver to move the vehicle. The VHP leader claimed that the staff also manhandled him and his driver. Soon, activists at VHP’s office in the neighbourhood rushed to the spot and, despite police presence at a nearby chowki, damaged the shop.

Amid the chaos, two sounds of gunfire were also heard. It has been alleged that these were fired by the band owner and damaged a police vehicle. The violence caused panic in the area and shopkeepers quickly brought down shutters on their outlets, rushing to safer places.

Led by SSP Agra, Amit Pathak, and SP (city), Kunwar Anupam Singh, heavy police force rushed in and controlled the situation.

Meanwhile, VHP activists condemned the attack on their leader and justified their aggressive stand.