Pilibhit, Uttar Pradesh – Tensions have surfaced in Pilibhit following the arrest of a local Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader, prompting the district administration to order an official inquiry into the matter. The controversy centers around Prince Gaur, the organisation’s secretary in Pilibhit, who was taken into custody on November 6 after an FIR was filed against him by Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Ritu Punia at the Pilibhit Nagar Kotwali police station.

The arrest, carried out on Saturday, led to immediate concerns after Gaur’s health reportedly deteriorated while in jail, resulting in his admission to a local hospital that same night. The case has since ignited a sharp dispute between the VHP and the district administration, with accusations that the action against Gaur was politically motivated and intended to malign the organisation.

VHP Alleges Political Targeting

Following the arrest, a delegation from the VHP Braj region, led by the organisation’s organising secretary Rajesh, met with District Magistrate Gyanendra Singh and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Abhishek Yadav. During the meeting, the delegation alleged that the FIR against Gaur was baseless and fabricated, asserting that it reflected an “anti-democratic mindset.” Rajesh claimed that the action was a deliberate attempt to tarnish the image of the VHP and its members.

“The Constitution gives every citizen the right to raise complaints against any officer or person. But here, a case was filed against someone who exercised that right. This reflects an anti-democratic mindset,” Rajesh told reporters. The delegation demanded a thorough and impartial investigation into ADM Punia’s conduct and sought accountability for any misuse of official authority.

Administration Orders Inquiry

Responding to the allegations, DM Gyanendra Singh confirmed that a VHP delegation had met with him regarding the incident and that an inquiry into the matter had been ordered. SSP Abhishek Yadav added that police were conducting a “thorough and impartial investigation” and were examining all facts and parties involved. “The organisation’s representatives presented their side. The police are examining all aspects of the case,” the SSP said, declining to comment further while the investigation remains ongoing.

According to VHP representatives, the delegation also highlighted what they described as ADM Punia’s biased conduct against the organisation. Rajesh claimed that the district officials responded positively and assured the delegation that the matter would be handled in a balanced and fair manner. The VHP has additionally informed the state government of the controversy and requested disciplinary action against the ADM.

Disputed Complaint Letter

Officials noted that ADM Punia had previously written to the district president of the VHP regarding a complaint that was later alleged to have been issued on a forged letterhead. The district president, in a reply dated November 4, denied authorising anyone to make such a complaint and termed the letter “fake.” In response, the VHP has said it will conduct an internal investigation into the alleged forgery.

“The VHP and Bajrang Dal should not be underestimated. Our organisation stands firmly with every karyakarta in all circumstances,” Rajesh said, reaffirming the organisation’s support for its members.

Legal Provisions Invoked

The FIR filed against Gaur lists multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Sections 132, 336, 338, 340, 308, and 351. These sections pertain to offences related to abetment, endangering public safety, criminal assault, and other serious charges. The case remains under investigation as authorities continue to verify all claims and counterclaims.

The incident in Pilibhit highlights the growing tensions in the state between political and social organisations and the administration. While the VHP alleges targeted action and bias, district authorities have maintained that a formal inquiry is underway to ensure impartiality and justice.

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