Hundreds to block highways to protest against police ‘inaction’

Ever since,Bali Pahalwan and his supporters have taken refuge at the former’s residence in Mokhra village. A large number of Mokhra residents stand guard are camping in and around Bali’s residence and prevent the police from even step into the village. They are armed with petrol bombs,arms and ammunition,sickles and swords.

The protest will begin at 9 am and carry on for an indefinite period,till the police arrest the accused wanted in case.

“The Haryana Police had sought time till today evening and assured us that they would arrest the accused. But the police have failed to fulfill their promise. A protest is mandatory and it will be intensified if the police fail to do their duty,” said Sitaram Rathi,a Kalanaur-based merchant told The Indian Express. Sitaram’s brother-in-law Vishnu was shot dead in the May 5 clash.

On the other hand,the Haryana Police had been claiming that their “aggressive action” to arrest Bali Pahalwan will lead to violence in the area. “Efforts are being made to create such circumstances,where Bali and the other accused come out of their hideout and surrender before the police. If done amicably,it would save a major commotion in the area. We are on the job,” said a senior police officer.

“Eleven people have been arrested in the case. Whoever is named in the FIR will be arrested. But we are only trying to maintain peace in the area. It is a sensitive matter and needs to be handled tactfully,” said Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) B S Sandhu.