Nuh communal clash: Farmer unions and khaps call for peace, seek Monu Manesar's arrest
Manesar, a Bajrang Dal leader, is being sought for his suspected involvement in the murder of two Muslim men earlier this year
New Delhi, August 11: Amidst the aftermath of communal clashes in Haryana's Nuh, various farmer unions and Khap panchayats are advocating for tranquility and urging the apprehension of Monu Manesar, a figure associated with cow vigilantism. The clashes that erupted on July 31 in Nuh resulted in six fatalities, including two home guards and a cleric, following an attack on a Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) procession by mobs.
Monu Manesar, a leader affiliated with the Bajrang Dal, is being sought for his alleged involvement in the killing of two Muslim men earlier this year. Speculations surrounding Manesar's attendance at a religious procession in Nuh are believed to have ignited the communal confrontations, subsequently spreading to Gurugram and other localities.
Law enforcement has lodged 113 FIRs and apprehended 305 individuals in connection with the clashes. Additionally, 106 detainees are currently undergoing interrogation.
A significant gathering comprising khaps, farmer unions, and religious leaders from Haryana recently convened in Hisar for a 'Mahapanchayat,' denouncing the violence and passing multiple resolutions aimed at fostering peace and harmony in the region. Representatives from various faiths participated in the event, where the consensus was reached that individuals from all religious backgrounds would collaborate to restore calm.
Recent online disclosures revealed letters purportedly authored by certain panchayat heads in districts like Mahendergarh, Rewari, and Jhajjar, proclaiming bans on Muslim traders conducting business in their villages.
The response to the communal violence from farmer unions has been critical of the Haryana government's approach, while Khap panchayats have demonstrated varied reactions. While some Khaps have endorsed the boycott of Muslim traders, others have condemned the violence and demanded Monu Manesar's arrest. Mainly, Khaps associated with the Jat community are insisting on Manesar's apprehension and fostering communal unity.
Manesar reportedly posted a video on social media claiming his participation in the Nuh religious procession and encouraging his followers to assemble. Subsequently, he was cautioned to refrain from attending via social media channels. He later stated that he heeded the advice of Vishwa Hindu Parishad not to attend, fearing his presence could escalate tensions.
Haryana's state police chief, P K Agrawal, declared the formation of a special investigation team (SIT) to examine Manesar's role in the clashes.
Monu Manesar, aged 30, is wanted by the police in connection with the kidnapping and murder of two Muslim men found deceased in a burnt vehicle in Bhiwani during February. Although the families of the victims, Junaid and Nasir, from Rajasthan's Bharatpur, alleged they were killed by Bajrang Dal members, the group has denied any involvement.
Following two weeks of closure due to the communal violence, schools and transportation services in Nuh will resume. Authorities have also encouraged Muslim clerics to conduct Friday prayers at home.
Nuh administration released a statement stating, "In view of the normal situation in the area, it has been decided to open all educational institutions from August 11. Similarly, bus services of Haryana State Transport are also being fully restored from August 11. Curfew will be relaxed on Friday. ATMs in the municipal corporation area of Nuh, Tawdu, Punhana, Ferozepur Jhirka, and Pingawa and Nagina blocks will remain open during the relaxation period."
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