FIR Filed Against Suheldev Army Chief for Unauthorized Protest Near UP Assembly
In a significant development, an FIR has been officially lodged at the Hazratganj police station in Lucknow against Yogesh Pasi, the national president of the Suheldev Army, along with approximately 100 unidentified supporters. The charges stem from an alleged unauthorized protest that took place on Saturday afternoon near the Uttar Pradesh Assembly complex, which resulted in severe traffic disruptions and a breach of security protocols.
Protest Against UGC Law Amendments
According to police reports, Yogesh Pasi and his supporters gathered in a restricted area directly in front of the UP Assembly complex. Their demonstration was reportedly aimed at protesting against proposed amendments to the University Grants Commission (UGC) laws. This area is designated as a high-security zone due to the presence of VVIPs and government officials, making any form of public gathering strictly prohibited.
Sub-inspector Bagesh Sharma, who is in charge of the Secretariat police outpost under the Hazratganj police station, filed the formal complaint. He emphasized that prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, were actively in force at the time. These orders explicitly ban all protests, demonstrations, and public gatherings in and around the Assembly and Lok Bhawan area to ensure security and public order.
Aggressive Behavior and Traffic Blockade
Despite repeated warnings and efforts by police officials to explain the prohibitory orders, the protesters allegedly refused to disperse. The situation escalated as the crowd turned aggressive, shouting slogans and using abusive language directed at the administration. This led to a complete blockage of the road, causing significant inconvenience to various groups, including schoolchildren, women, traders, government employees, and the general public commuting through the area.
Police authorities stated that the disruption was not only a nuisance but also posed a serious threat to public safety. The unlawful assembly of over 100 individuals in such a sensitive security zone was deemed a direct violation of the law, necessitating immediate legal action.
Legal Charges Under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
The FIR outlines specific offences under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which have been invoked against the accused. These include:
- Section 189(2): Related to unlawful assembly with common object.
- Section 191(2): Pertaining to rioting.
- Section 285: Addressing obstruction of public way or line of navigation.
- Section 352: Concerning assault or criminal force to deter public servant from duty.
- Section 223: Involving disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant.
These charges highlight the gravity of the incident, as they encompass not just the unauthorized protest but also the aggressive behavior and obstruction that followed. The police have underscored that such actions are punishable under the new legal framework, aiming to maintain strict adherence to security measures in critical government zones.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the stringent regulations in place around sensitive areas like the UP Assembly, where any breach can lead to swift legal repercussions. Authorities are continuing their investigation to identify the other supporters involved and ensure that similar incidents are prevented in the future.
