Preparations for the annual Falguni Lakkhi fair at the world-famous Khatushyamji temple have triggered controversy after a clash erupted between local residents and the police over crowd-control measures. The situation escalated at Modi Chowk when residents protested against the installation of heavy iron gates, leading to a confrontation with the police. A video allegedly showing the Station House Officer (SHO) of Khatushyam Kotwali, Pawan Choubey, manhandling a youth has since gone viral on social media.

The Falguni Lakkhi fair, scheduled to begin on February 21, attracts lakhs of devotees from across the country every year. Anticipating massive crowds, the administration has begun installing iron gates and barricades at key points in the town to regulate movement and prevent overcrowding. However, the move has met strong resistance from locals, particularly in densely populated areas such as Modi Chowk.

Allegations Against SHO

According to residents, when police personnel arrived to install gates on the Modi Chowk road, locals objected, alleging that the barricades would severely disrupt daily life. They claimed the measures would effectively “turn the town into a jail,” restricting movement of residents during the fair period.

Following reports of unrest, SHO Pawan Choubey reached the spot with a police force. A video circulating online allegedly shows the SHO abusing a young man, grabbing him by the collar and throwing him to the ground. The footage has triggered anger among locals, who have questioned the police’s conduct. However, the authenticity of the video has not been independently verified.

Residents Question ‘Security at the Cost of Freedom’

Local residents insist they are not opposed to the Falguni fair but object to what they describe as excessive and unilateral security arrangements. They allege that peaceful protests were met with force and abusive behaviour, further inflaming tensions in the area.

“Security should not come at the cost of residents’ basic freedom,” villagers said, accusing the administration of ignoring local concerns and resorting to intimidation rather than dialogue.

Administration Defends Crowd-Control Measures

On the other hand, police and district administration officials have defended the move, stating that the Falguni fair, held from February 21 to 28, witnesses an unprecedented influx of devotees. They argue that strict crowd-management measures, including barricades and iron gates at sensitive locations like Modi Chowk, are essential to prevent stampedes and other untoward incidents.

Officials maintain that public safety remains the top priority and that such arrangements are standard practice during large religious gatherings.

Situation Remains Tense

As of now, tension continues between local residents and the administration, with growing public resentment over the police action. The incident has raised questions about policing methods during large-scale events and the need to strike a balance between security arrangements and the convenience of local residents. How the administration addresses the grievances while ensuring safety during the fair will be closely watched in the coming days.