Opposition parties and numerous social organisations called for a state-wide shutdown, or bandh, in Uttarakhand on Sunday. The protest was aimed at demanding a thorough investigation into the 2022 murder case of a 19-year-old receptionist at a Rishikesh resort. The bandh received a mixed response across the hill state.
Uneven Impact Across Districts
The bandh's effectiveness varied significantly from one region to another. Cities like Haridwar and the popular hill station of Mussoorie remained largely unaffected, with normal life continuing. However, markets in several key districts, including Pauri, Chamoli, Tehri, and Rudraprayag, remained closed in solidarity with the protest call.
In the state capital, Dehradun, a rally was organised from Gandhi Park, with protesters marching through the city streets. Mohit Dimri of the Mool Niwas Sangharsh Samiti, the group spearheading the agitation, stated that most trade associations supported the bandh. He mentioned that a few open shops were requested to close, and many complied. The bandh was reported to be particularly effective in the Garhwal hills region.
Core Demands of the Protesters
Despite Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami having already recommended a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the murder, which allegedly involves a 'mysterious VIP', the protesting organisations are not satisfied. They are adamant that the investigation must be conducted under the supervision of a sitting Supreme Court judge, a demand originally made by the victim's parents.
The protesters have also demanded that the scope of the investigation be widened to cover all unexplained aspects of the case. They insist on strict action based on the First Information Report (FIR) filed by the victim's father and have vowed that the culprits, including the alleged VIP, must not escape punishment.
District-Wise Reports of Protests
Protests and demonstrations were reported from various parts of the state. In Almora, the Uttarakhand Kranti Dal (UKD) organised protests at Chaughanpata and Gandhi Park. In Uttarkashi, Congress district president Pradeep Singh Rawat led party workers in shutting down the town market and taking out a march while raising anti-BJP slogans.
An interesting scenario unfolded in Bageshwar. Although the town observes a routine weekly closure on Sundays, shops usually open during the ongoing Uttarayani fair. However, in support of the bandh, most establishments remained shut. Kavi Joshi, president of Sangharsh Vahini Bageshwar, noted "complete compliance across the town."
In Roorkee, markets functioned as usual, but Congress and social groups conducted foot marches, burnt effigies, and submitted a memorandum to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) demanding the imposition of President's Rule in Uttarakhand. In Haridwar, senior Congress leaders offered prayers at Har ki Pauri for the victim.
Political Undercurrents and Future Protests
The case has regained significant political momentum in recent weeks. This follows the online circulation of audio and video clips allegedly released by Haridwar-based actor Urmila Sanawar. In these clips, expelled former BJP MLA Suresh Rathore is purportedly heard referring to a "VIP", whom he alleged was BJP national general secretary and Uttarakhand in-charge Dushyant Gautam. Gautam has strongly denied these allegations and has filed defamation cases.
Protest leaders have indicated that Sunday's bandh is just the beginning. Mohit Dimri stated that more protests would be held in the coming days to "sustain public pressure and keep the investigation on track." The issue continues to be a major flashpoint in Uttarakhand's political landscape, with opposition parties seeking to hold the state government accountable for a swift and transparent resolution.
