Hathras Father and Son Arrested After Public Humiliation Over Religious Suspicion
In a shocking incident in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras district, a 65-year-old man and his younger son were arrested on Tuesday after publicly disowning and humiliating the older son and his wife over suspicions of converting to Christianity. The case has sparked widespread outrage and drawn police intervention following the circulation of purported videos from a village panchayat.
Incident Details and Public Outcry
According to local residents, Shivraj Singh, 65, demanded a social boycott of his son Balram Singh, 40, and his family at a village panchayat on Monday. He allegedly forced the couple to wear a garland of shoes in public, a degrading act meant to shame them. The panchayat was convened after Shivraj grew suspicious of Balram's behavior, such as avoiding traditional greetings and prasad, leading to a heated argument. Balram's brother, Tarachand, 38, also reportedly joined in and assaulted his sibling during the event.
Balram Singh, who earns a living by operating swing rides at fairs, had recently returned to his native village, Garaw Garhi in Hathras district, with his wife Meena Devi, 38, and their 16-year-old son. The family's move back to the village triggered the conflict, with Shivraj accusing them of religious conversion based on perceived changes in behavior.
Police Response and Legal Action
After videos of the panchayat surfaced online, drawing public attention, a police team reached the location and initiated an inquiry. Mursan area circle officer Yogendra Krishna Narayan stated that an FIR was registered under BNSS 170, which pertains to preventive arrests without warrant. Shivraj and Tarachand have been arrested, and necessary legal steps are being taken as per the law. Police are also investigating the role of others present at the panchayat to ensure accountability.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions around religious conversion in parts of Uttar Pradesh, raising concerns about communal harmony and legal enforcement. Authorities have emphasized that such acts of public humiliation and violence will not be tolerated, and the case is being closely monitored to prevent further escalation.
