Kanpur witnessed a significant protest on Wednesday as trader groups staged a dharna against the alleged assault on trader Brijkishor Gupta and his son at the Government Medical College in Orai, Jalaun district. The demonstration led to the closure of numerous markets across the city, following a call from various trade and women's organizations.
Market Shutdown and Protests
Shops in major markets remained closed from Wednesday morning as traders gathered at the Ghantaghar Crossing. The protesters raised slogans against the medical college administration and doctors, condemning the alleged manhandling of Gupta and his son. They claimed that despite filing a complaint, no concrete action was taken against the perpetrators.
Police Response and Allegations
The situation escalated after the Orai Kotwali police registered a case against the trader and his son based on a written complaint from the doctors. This move triggered resentment among the trading community, who accused the police of taking one-sided action and ignoring their grievances. The protesters warned that if an impartial investigation was not conducted and guilty doctors were not punished, the agitation would be intensified.
Authorities Intervene
In response to the protest, a heavy police force was deployed at Ghanta Ghar Crossing and surrounding areas. City Magistrate Sunil Kumar Singh and CO Rajeev Sharma arrived at the scene along with police personnel to pacify the demonstrators. Later, Superintendent of Police Vinay Kumar Singh held talks with the traders and assured them of an impartial investigation. He emphasized that the law is equal for everyone and no guilty person would be spared.
Protest Called Off
Following the assurance from the police administration, the traders called off the dharna. However, they warned that if impartial action was not taken, they would launch the agitation again in the future.
