Jaisalmer Village Sees Mob Violence Over Minor Elopement Case
In a disturbing incident in Jaisalmer district, a house was allegedly vandalized and set on fire by a mob. This violent act occurred in Chhayan village near Ramdevra on Tuesday. The target was the home of a 22-year-old man accused of eloping with a minor girl.
Panchayat Meeting Fails to Prevent Escalation
According to police reports, the village panchayat had arranged a meeting earlier that day. The purpose was to resolve tensions between the families involved in the elopement case. However, the man's father did not attend the gathering. He later stated he stayed away out of fear for his safety.
Following his absence, around 25 people from the girl's family and community took matters into their own hands. They allegedly entered the man's house and began destroying property. The mob then set the house on fire, causing significant damage. They also broke the water tank located in front of the property.
Police and Fire Brigade Respond to the Incident
Fortunately, no injuries were reported. The man's family was working in their fields at the time of the attack. Ramdevra police station officer Khetaram and other officials rushed to the scene after receiving information. The fire brigade also arrived promptly and managed to bring the blaze under control.
The man's father has filed a formal complaint with the police. He alleges that people set his house on fire due to existing enmity. A case has been registered at Ramdevra police station based on his statement. Police personnel have now been deployed in the village to maintain order.
Background of the Elopement Case
Officer Khetaram provided details about the original case. The girl's family had filed a complaint under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act on December 17. They stated that a boy from the village had eloped with their minor daughter.
The girl returned home the same evening. However, the young man remained absconding for three days before police arrested him. He is currently in judicial custody. The minor girl is now with her family.
Family Seeks Justice and Compensation
In the aftermath of the arson attack, the man's family traveled to Pokhran. They submitted a memorandum to Assistant Superintendent of Police Praveen Kumar. Their demands are clear and urgent.
The family is calling for two main actions:
- Legal action against all individuals involved in setting their house on fire.
- Financial compensation for the losses they suffered due to the vandalism and fire.
This incident highlights the volatile tensions that can arise in communities over such sensitive matters. It also underscores the challenges authorities face in preventing vigilante justice.
