Caste clashes over property dispute in Noida, 22-yr-old dead, 6 injured

The issue turned into an inter-community altercation, and in the ensuing violence, 22-year-old Rahul Singh Kasana was killed, cars and property were burnt and destroyed.

Officers said while the situation was eventually brought under control, and four persons detained for questioning, the Provincial Armed Constibulary (PAC) has been deployed in the area.

Senior officers said Des Raj, the former pradhan of the village, and Chaman Singh had met in the presence of other villagers to sort out a dispute revolving around the ownership of a plot.

“The conversation between both sides became increasingly heated and as it happened, one of Chaman Singh’s family members hurled a brick at Des Raj, injuring him on the head,” Yogesh Singh, Superintendent of Police (city), said.

Officers said the violence escalated quickly and more than 40 rounds were fired. “Rahul was shot in the melee, and this only exacerbated the situation. While we have registered a case of murder, and attempt to murder against unnamed persons, it is highly likely that Rahul was shot accidentally. Prima facie, it seems that the Gujjar group had weapons, while the others were using sticks and stones,” a senior officer said.

Police said angered by the death of Rahul, a BCom student who had married two months ago, a group of men attempted to enter Ram Krishna Institute in Sector 9, Vasundhra, where several Dalit children study. However, police was notified by the principal, Dr Namita Sharma. The group fled when they saw police teams approaching the spot.

Preetinder Singh, Senior Superintendent of Police said, “We are trying to ascertain the exact sequence of events on Monday. Three platoons of the PAC have been deployed, and senior police officers have been asked to stay at the village to ensure that violence does not recur. Confidence building conversations between both groups are also taking place.

Four persons have been detained on charges of murder, attempt to murder, destruction of property and other related charges. Two vehicles were also burnt by the irate mob.”