Raipur
Bajrang Dal activists blocked the road in front of the Telibandha police station on Saturday, protesting against an FIR registered following vandalism at the Magneto Mall. The protesters performed a ‘hawan’ on the street, leading to significant traffic disruptions.
A heavy police contingent, including two ASP, four CSP, and over 12 TI, has been deployed to maintain law and order. Authorities have diverted traffic coming from Mandir Hahasod and the airport towards the National Highway near Telibandha Chowk.
Protest against police action
The district convener of Bajrang Dal, Vijendra Verma, denied the allegations of vandalism. He claimed that the police action over minor damage to decorations was excessive.
“The protest is part of our plan to surround the police station where the FIR was lodged,” Verma said.
The group alleged that while their members were being detained, no action was taken regarding an earlier incident in Kanker, where they claimed 25 community members were attacked. Verma added that the installation of a Santa Claus statue in the mall was a provocation.
Vandalism on Christmas Eve
The incident follows chaos at Magneto Mall on 24 December during a statewide shutdown. Approximately 30 to 40 activists allegedly entered the mall armed with sticks and hockey sticks. According to mall officials, the group questioned employees about their religion and caste before damaging property.
Abha Gupta, Marketing Head of Magneto Mall, stated that the establishment had supported the shutdown and remained closed.
“Around 50 to 100 people forced their way in. They were aggressive and checked the ID cards and badges of staff members. Many employees were terrified,” she said.
The mall management estimated the financial loss between ₹15 lakh and ₹20 lakh. Police arrived after decorative items and a Christmas tree were destroyed.
Police register case
Based on CCTV footage, Raipur Police have registered a case against 30 to 40 unidentified individuals. The FIR includes charges under Sections 115(2), 190, 191(2), 324(2), and 331(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
In separate incidents during the shutdown, activists were also caught on camera assaulting an employee at a Blinkit office. Precautionary measures were taken at Ambuja Mall on Vidhan Sabha Road, where security was tightened and visitors were asked to vacate the premises to prevent further unrest.
