In a shocking incident, Chandra Shekhar Azad, the prominent Dalit leader and Bhim Army chief, sustained injuries after unidentified assailants opened fire on his car in Deoband. The incident occurred when Azad was leaving after attending a ‘terhavin’ ritual at a supporter’s residence in Saharanpur district.
According to eyewitnesses, the assailants, traveling in a car with a Haryana registration number, targeted Azad’s SUV from the right side, firing multiple shots. Miraculously, Azad escaped with a graze to his abdomen and is currently in stable condition at a hospital, where he is receiving treatment.
In response to the attack, a massive operation has been launched by the police to apprehend the assailants. The district borders have been sealed, and authorities are coordinating with neighboring districts for assistance in tracking down the attackers.
The incident has sparked a political outcry, with the Samajwadi Party raising questions about the state government’s handling of law and order under BJP rule. Party president Akhilesh Yadav condemned the attack, highlighting concerns about the safety of public figures and the overall state of affairs in Uttar Pradesh.
As the investigation continues, a case under section 307 of IPC (Indian Penal Code) and violations of the SC/ST (Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes) Act has been registered by the Uttar Pradesh police. The search for the assailants and their vehicle is ongoing, and reports of a recovered car with Haryana registration have emerged on social media.
Recalling the terrifying ordeal, Azad, from his hospital bed, stated that he and his companions identified the attackers, who fled towards Saharanpur. He expressed determination to assist in bringing them to justice.
“I don’t remember well but my people identified them. Their car went towards Saharanpur. We took a U-Turn. Five of us, including my younger brother, were in the car when the incident occurred,” said Azad. As quoted by ANI, Azad sends message to his friends, supporters and workers to maintain peace.
The incident has ignited concerns about the prevailing law and order situation in the state, prompting calls for swift action and stricter measures to ensure the safety of citizens and public figures alike. The police are diligently pursuing the investigation, aiming to provide justice and restore confidence in the security apparatus.