Uttarakhand: Post-election political turmoil in Kichha; MLA allegedly slapped; one arrested, 30 detained

Following the Kichha municipal elections, supporters of MLA Tilak Raj Behar and former MLA Rajesh Shukla confronted each other at the vote-counting center on Tuesday evening. A verbal altercation escalated into a scuffle, during which allegations were made that MLA Tilak Raj Behar was slapped. Police immediately separated the two groups. One individual has been arrested in connection with the incident, while 30 others have been detained, and legal proceedings are underway.

Dispute over strong room arrangements

Reports indicate that a dispute had already been brewing regarding security arrangements and the installation of curtains outside the strong room. Amidst this, MLA Tilak Raj Behar and former MLA Rajesh Shukla came face-to-face, and tensions rose between their respective supporters. It was during this confrontation that the allegation of MLA Behar being slapped surfaced. The MLA’s camp stated their intention to file a formal complaint with the police.

Police separated the two groups

Observing the deteriorating situation, the police separated the two groups and removed them from the scene. According to the police, former MLA Rajesh Shukla and his supporters were taken to the SIDCUL police outpost in Pantnagar, while MLA Tilak Raj Behar and his supporters were taken to the Kichha Kotwali police station. Police stated that this action was taken to maintain law and order and prevent any untoward incident.

One arrested, 30 detained

Police have arrested 40-year-old Dheeraj Kumar, a resident of Aastha Colony in Lalpur. According to the police, he is accused of scuffling with the MLA. He has been arrested under Section 170, and proceedings to produce him before the court are underway. Additionally, 30 individuals have been detained for disturbing the peace.

MLA’s camp seeks FIR

Following the incident, the MLA’s camp demanded the registration of an FIR and punitive action against the guilty parties. Allegations were also raised regarding attempts to influence the election process. The final status regarding these allegations will become clear following the police investigation and judicial proceedings. Security at Strong Room Beefed Up

SSP Ajay Ganpati stated that no disruption to the election process or the security of the strong room would be tolerated. Legal action, based on evidence, will be taken against those attempting to disturb the peace.

Security at the vote-counting complex has been further tightened following the incident. The police are investigating the roles of those involved in the episode, and action is being taken against the detained individuals in accordance with the law.