Bahraich Violence: 'Red-Tagging' Of Homes Spark 'Bulldozer Action' Fears

In Bahraich, authorities have marked certain houses with red signs. This 'red-tagging', following arrests in the Bahraich violence, has sparked fear over potential demolitions.

In a decisive action, the Public Works Department (PWD) has marked several houses in Bahraich with red signs, including the home of Sarfaraz, the prime suspect in the murder of Ram Gopal Mishra. The red marking of these properties is part of an ongoing investigation into those allegedly involved in the killing, reported news agency IANS.

Authorities in Bahraich have arrested over 52 individuals so far, in relation to 11 separate cases that emerged following the incident. This "red-tagging" of houses comes approximately a week after communal violence erupted in Maharajganj on October 13, and is being viewed as a potential precursor to bulldozer operations. Sarfaraz, the key accused, was shot and killed in a police encounter on Thursday while attempting to flee to Nepal.

The marking of homes has sparked fear and unrest among the local residents, particularly those whose homes have been 'targeted'. Many are living in a state of panic, worried that their properties may soon be demolished, IANS reported.

A local woman named Mahmoodan recounted how her husband was taken away by police without explanation. She said, "We were sitting quietly when they suddenly dragged him away without a word. He was beaten and hasn’t been released yet."

Other residents echoed similar concerns about the ongoing chaos following the communal violence in Bahraich, claiming that their homes are being raided by mobs. One woman shared her distress after her husband fled from the police: "He ran away in panic. He is 60 years old, and I don’t know if he’s dead or alive. I have small children and don’t know how to handle this situation."

Another local woman, anxious about the repeated disturbances, expressed, "People keep breaking into my house and causing damage. Where can I go? My grandchildren are sick, and I can’t even get them the medication they need. What should I do?"

The violence in Bahraich was sparked by a confrontation between two communities during the Durga idol immersion on October 13, which quickly escalated into clashes. Ram Gopal Mishra, a 22-year-old, was shot dead during the unrest in the Mahrajganj area of Bahraich's Mansoor village, triggering widespread protests.

The state government has vowed to take strict action against those responsible. Sarfaraz, along with his accomplice Talib, was apprehended while attempting to escape to Nepal, marking a significant breakthrough in the investigation.