Protests in India over killed BJP politician
Political parties call for action after shooting of prominent BJP member Vijay Pandit on the outskirts of the capital.
India’s political parties have demanded stringent action against the killers of a prominent member of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader on the outskirts of the capital New Delhi, which triggered violence and protests.
Unidentified gunmen shot dead Vijay Pandit in Greater Noida city in northern Uttar Pradesh state on Saturday night.
Pandit, a former district BJP vice president, had led the campaign for the local BJP candidate in the country’s recent election.
He was rushed to a nearby hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.
Four people have been detained in connection with the murder, India’s English-language channel Times Now reported.
The shoot-out once again highlighted the deteriorating law and order situation in Uttar Pradesh where murders and rapes have become a common phenomenon.
“It is very unfortunate incident and incidences of violence against women have gone up,” BJP leader Meenakshi Lekhi said.
“It is also unfortunate that the provincial government and administration, which should be with the people, is not aware of the victims’ plight.
“Such governments, which don’t care about people’s suffering can’t last. The country and province is suffering due to rising distrust amongst people.”
Death threats
Pandit’s family members reportedly complained he had received several death threats, but the police took no action.
“It is unfortunate. Stringent action should be taken against the culprits,” said the leader of India’s main opposition Congress Party, Rashid Alvi.
On Sunday, angry BJP workers gathered at the site and set vehicles on fire, causing heavy traffic jams.
Huge crowds gathered to pay their last respects to Pandit while his body was taken through the streets in his hometown.
The supporters shouted slogans, demanding justice for over the death.