Outrage Over Agnipath Stir: 69 Penalized with Hefty Rs 12 Lakh Fine for Property Damage in Lucknow

The Meerut Division Claims Tribunal has imposed a fine exceeding Rs 12 lakh on 69 identified individuals for vandalizing public property during protests against the Agnipath scheme in Aligarh in 2022. Each protester is required to pay at least Rs 16,969 as compensation for the damages incurred, which included the vandalism of several UP Roadways buses. This directive comes from Commissioner Alok Pandey.

The unrest, which took place under the jurisdiction of Tappal police station, led to an FIR being filed in 2022 that initially named 66 individuals and included 450 unidentified protesters. Following further investigations, three additional names were added to the list. Of those initially named, 30 were arrested but later released. The penalties have been issued in accordance with the provisions of the U.P. Recovery of Damages to Public and Private Property Act, 2020.

The Agnipath scheme has been controversial, attracting opposition from various political parties and Armed Forces veterans since its announcement in June 2022. The scheme’s introduction has spurred protests across various regions, highlighting the growing tensions between the government’s plans and the public’s reception.

This enforcement of fines in Aligarh underscores the authorities’ commitment to holding protesters accountable for public disorder and property damage, setting a precedent for handling similar incidents in the future.

Original Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/lucknow/agnipath-stir-69-fined-over-rs-12-lakh-for-property-damage-9743190/
Category : Cities,Lucknow
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Publish Date: 2024-12-25 03:02:00