Mathura: A three-day-long protest in Mathura’s Chaumuhan region has led to the withdrawal of an SC-ST Act case filed against 42 individuals from the upper caste community. The case, which was allegedly registered in a biased manner, sparked widespread dissent, culminating in a grand assembly (Mahapanchayat) where community leaders demanded its cancellation. The protesters warned of a large-scale movement, including a ‘Jail Bharo’ (voluntary mass arrest) protest, if the case was not revoked.
The dispute originated in the village of Bati, under the Jaint region of Mathura, during Holi celebrations. A disagreement over the application of colors escalated into stone-pelting, leaving eight people injured from one faction. Following this, a case was filed against 32 individuals from the Scheduled Caste (SC) community, leading to the arrest of nine people.
In retaliation, members of the SC community staged a protest near the District Collectorate a week later, demanding justice. In response, the police registered a fresh case against 42 individuals from the upper caste community under the SC-ST Act, along with molestation and 12 other charges. This move was perceived as one-sided by the upper caste groups, triggering widespread outrage.
On Sunday, a massive Mahapanchayat was convened at Sitaram Ashram, located on Chhata-Radhakund Road, where leaders from the upper caste community unanimously demanded the withdrawal of the case. The gathering witnessed the participation of thousands, with strong statements made against the alleged bias of the administration.
Govardhan MLA Meghshyam Singh, who attended the Mahapanchayat, was handed a memorandum requesting intervention in the matter. He assured the attendees that he would bring the issue to the attention of the District Magistrate (DM) and the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) to ensure a fair resolution.
Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena’s district president, Kanhaiya Thakur, condemned the police action, stating that the administration had acted unjustly. “This biased approach by the authorities will not be tolerated. The upper caste community will fight until this injustice is rectified,” he declared.
Religious leader Kaushal Kishore Maharaj also voiced his concerns, stating that the community would not allow discrimination against its members. Similarly, Yashveer Singh Raghav warned of a mass movement, with 42,000 people ready to be arrested if the case was not withdrawn.
Several legal professionals, including former Bar Association president Kishan Singh, along with community leaders like Atal Sisodia, Chhaya Gautam, and others, criticized the police action. The event was presided over by Chaumuhan Chairman Representative Kare Baba and conducted by Ramjilal.
With increasing pressure from the Mahapanchayat and the threat of a large-scale protest, authorities were compelled to review the case. Following high-level discussions, officials decided to withdraw the case against the 42 individuals. However, community leaders have warned that if such actions continue in the future, they will not hesitate to mobilize on a larger scale.
The upper caste community has also announced a planned demonstration at the DM’s office on March 27 to ensure that the authorities remain accountable for their actions. Meanwhile, the SC community continues to demand justice for the initial arrests made against its members.
The situation remains tense, with both communities seeking fairness in the administration’s approach. Authorities are now working to maintain peace in the region while addressing grievances from both sides.
