An Afghan national residing as a refugee in Nagpur was briefly apprehended by police in Varanasi this week after his solitary movements raised suspicion. The incident, which concluded without any charges, has highlighted the challenges faced by individuals with mental health issues within refugee communities.
From Nagpur to Varanasi: A Troubled Journey
Peer Badshah, a registered Afghan refugee holding a valid United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) card, was taken into custody by Varanasi police on Tuesday. Authorities acted on reports of his suspicious movement in the ancient city. However, upon investigation, it was determined that Badshah suffers from mental health issues and had no malicious intent. He was subsequently released on Wednesday after verification and counselling.
A Pattern of Solitary Travel
According to police officials, Badshah's family and local authorities in Nagpur are familiar with his condition. He frequently embarks on solo motorcycle journeys without informing his relatives. "We call him 'malang' (carefree/mystic) as he often visits nearby dargahs," stated a senior police official, describing his behavior.
His recent ordeal began approximately two weeks ago when he left his Nagpur home on his bike and traveled to Dhanbad in Jharkhand. There, his health deteriorated due to a seasonal flu. Compassionate locals in Dhanbad provided him with food, financial assistance, and arranged for his return journey to Nagpur by train, leaving his motorcycle behind. Upon his return, he was admitted to a hospital in Nagpur for treatment.
Lost and Found: The Detention in Varanasi
After recovering, Peer Badshah's primary concern was retrieving his motorcycle. He traveled back to Dhanbad to collect it. However, on his return journey to Nagpur, he lost his way and ended up in Varanasi. His unfamiliar and seemingly erratic presence in the city triggered concern among locals, leading to his brief detention by Varanasi police.
Police swiftly conducted verifications. Badshah's son, who works as a door-to-door blanket vendor, also lives in Nagpur. The family is officially registered with the Wathoda police station in Nagpur and possesses all necessary refugee documentation. After confirming his identity and mental state, and establishing that there was no security threat, authorities counselled Badshah and handed him over to his relatives.
The police have officially classified the matter as a case of a mentally distressed individual straying during travel, emphasizing that it posed no risk to public safety. The incident underscores the delicate balance between necessary security vigilance and the humane handling of vulnerable individuals, including those with refugee status.
