Dehradun: In a concerning development, a video surfaced on social media in which Lalit Sharma, a leader of the Hindu Raksha Dal, issued a threatening ultimatum to Kashmiri Muslims residing in Uttarakhand. The video, which quickly went viral, demanded that Kashmiri Muslims leave the state by 10 a.m. the following day or face severe consequences.
This alarming message, referencing an incident in Pahalgam, prompted swift action from the Dehradun police to ensure the safety and security of Kashmiri residents.
जनपद देहरादून में अध्ययनरत कश्मीरी छात्रों के संबंध में एसएसपी देहरादून की मीडिया बाईट pic.twitter.com/2aGjC4BHmx
— Dehradun Police Uttarakhand (@DehradunPolice) April 24, 2025
The Threat and Its Immediate Impact
In the video, Sharma stated, “If we see any Kashmiri Muslim in the state after 10 a.m. tomorrow, we will give them the right treatment. Tomorrow, all our workers will leave their homes to give this treatment to Kashmiri Muslims. We won’t wait for the government to take action.” Such incendiary remarks led to heightened fear among Kashmiri students and residents in Uttarakhand. Reports emerged of students leaving their institutions and heading to the airport to escape potential harm. A student from Doon PG College revealed that several students had already left, while others were preparing for exams amidst the tense atmosphere.
Police Intervention and Assurance
The Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) of Dehradun, Ajai Singh, assured the public that the police were actively addressing the situation. Authorities increased security measures and removed 25 inciting posts from social media platforms to prevent further escalation. Singh emphasized that strict action would be taken against anyone violating the law and reassured Kashmiri students and residents of their safety. The police also maintained communication with deans and wardens of educational institutions to monitor the situation closely.
This incident is reminiscent of the aftermath of the Pulwama attack
This incident is reminiscent of the aftermath of the Pulwama attack in February 2019, when Kashmiri students faced violence and intimidation from right-wing groups. During that time, several individuals attempted to enter college premises to target Kashmiri students. The recurrence of such threats highlights the need for robust measures to protect vulnerable communities and prevent communal tensions.
Community Support and Advocacy
Organizations like the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association have stepped in to support affected students. Nasir Khuehami, a representative of the association, stated that they were in contact with the Governor of Uttarakhand and the police to ensure the safety of Kashmiri residents. The association continues to monitor the situation and provide assistance to those in need.
