Authorities maintain Vigil in Chamba district amid post- massacre tensions
Shimla/Chamba, June 16
The aftermath of the Manohar massacre in Bhandal Valley, Saloni area, had led to an atmosphere of tension in the region of Chamba. Yesterday, enraged individuals set fire to the house of the accused murderer, further intensifying the situation. In response, the district administration swiftly imposed Section 144 in the area to maintain law and order. Extensive security measures have been implemented to ensure the prevention of any untoward incidents.
Today, the opposition BJP tried to go to meet the victims’ family but was stopped by the State police. BJP State President and former Assembly Speaker Dr. Rajeev Bindal while addressing a meeting in Dalhousie said the accident that happened in Chamba has hurt our hearts, we all should come together only to get justice for Manohar. Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur, MLA Hansraj, former minister Rakesh Pathania DS Thakur, Vikram Jarial, Pawan Nayyar Rajesh Thakur Jia Lal Rita Dhiman Rajesh Thakur Arjun Thakur Amit Thakur Nagpal were present on the occasion. These stated that they shall conduct dharnas across all 12 districts of the State.
The barbarity displayed in this crime is beyond imagination, added Bindal. It indicates the involvement of an individual who is not ordinary either. He said that it points towards the actions of a habitual criminal. Our peaceful state is now seeking answers, questioning the hidden motives behind this incident. There is a growing concern that these revelations might expose deeper secrets, shedding light on activities across the border, he suspected.
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Meanwhile reports arriving here, the administration have deployed additional police forces and special teams in the areas of Saloni, Kihar, Bhandal, and Saghni. Superintendent of Police (SP) Abhishek Yadav and District Collector (DC) Apoorva Devgan are present on-site, closely monitoring the situation. A Special Investigation Team (SIT), headed by a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), has been assigned to keep a watchful eye on developments.
However, today, the situation appears to have improved to some extent following the imposition of Section 144. Markets in the Kihar, Bhandal, and Saghni areas had reopened, but cautionary measures are in place to prevent overcrowding. Although people were present at their shops, a noticeably reduced crowd was observed in these areas.
Under the leadership of the DSP, a significant police presence has been established in the Saloni area following the enforcement of Section 144. As a precautionary measure, all government and private schools in the Saloni area have been closed for a period of one week. An official spokesperson stated that this decision was made in response to the imposed section and it is expected that the schools will remain closed for the entire week.
The district administration is engaging in continuous dialogue with the residents, ensuring their welfare and addressing any concerns they may have.
Authorities are working diligently to restore normalcy and maintain peace and order in the region. As the situation develops, the district administration and law enforcement agencies remain committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of the residents in Bhandal Valley and the surrounding areas.
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