In a significant development from Uttar Pradesh's Chandauli district, the Saiydraja police have registered a formal case against former Samajwadi Party MLA Manoj Singh, popularly known as Dablu, and approximately sixty unidentified individuals. The legal action stems from a heated confrontation that erupted over the playing of loud DJ music during the Saraswati idol immersion ceremony on the night of January 26.
Background of the Incident
According to detailed reports from the region, local youths in Saiydraja town had organized a special DJ system, brought all the way from Ayodhya, to accompany the idol immersion procession following the conclusion of Saraswati Puja celebrations. The night of January 26 saw these participants engaging in enthusiastic dancing and singing, amplified by the high-decibel DJ music, as they proceeded with the religious ritual.
Police Intervention and Escalation
The situation took a contentious turn when police personnel on duty intervened, requesting the group to lower the volume of the music. This directive was met with immediate resentment from the participants, leading to a palpable increase in tension at the site. Upon learning of the brewing conflict, former MLA Manoj Kumar Singh arrived at the scene and attempted to mediate on behalf of the youths.
During discussions with the authorities, Singh reportedly cited that prior permission had been obtained for playing the music. However, police officials, including Circle Officer Devendra Kumar, countered by directing the procession to alter its planned route. This exchange quickly devolved into a heated argument between the former legislator and the police officer.
Volatile Exchange and Legal Repercussions
The confrontation reached a critical point when Manoj Singh allegedly warned that if police actions were intended to provoke a riot, he was prepared to go to jail alongside ten thousand youths. In a firm response, CO Devendra Kumar stated that any individual found attempting to incite communal violence would receive a befitting reply from law enforcement.
Subsequently, the Saiydraja police station formally registered a case under multiple legal provisions. The accused include former MLA Manoj Singh, DJ operator Shubham Gupta, individuals named Deepak Murti and Ashish, along with fifty to sixty unidentified persons. The charges encompass sections 191(2), 192, 351(2), 223, 270, and 292 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), alongside provisions of the 7 CLA Act and Section 15 of the Environment Protection Act of 1986.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges authorities face in balancing religious celebrations with public order and environmental regulations during major festivals in Uttar Pradesh.
