14/06/2026
I strongly condemn the violence that followed the death of BJP leader Vinod Kumar in Bairagiwala village, Dehradun. While the alleged murder arising from a reported irrigation water dispute must be investigated impartially and the guilty must be punished according to law, the subsequent acts of stone pelting, arson, mob violence, provocative slogans, and attempts to disturb communal harmony are equally condemnable. Strict action must be taken against all individuals and groups responsible for creating unrest and disturbing peace in Dehradun.
I also express serious concern over the alleged selective response of the police and administration, including demolition action against properties linked to accused persons before the completion of judicial proceedings. Authorities must ensure that the law is applied equally and that no rioter or official responsible for undermining the rule of law is allowed to escape accountability. A comprehensive investigation is essential into the original crime, retaliatory violence, and the conduct of authorities to uphold justice and public confidence.
Muhammad Elyas Thumbe
National General Secretary
Social Democratic Party of India
