Opposition Leader Slams Police Handling of Majra Abduction Case, Accuses Authorities of Siding with Accused

Shimla, 16 June:
Himachal Pradesh Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur has issued a sharp rebuke over the recent abduction incident in Paonta Sahib, calling the unfolding events “deeply unfortunate and alarming.” In a statement from Shimla, Thakur accused the police and district administration of acting unfairly toward the victim’s family while showing bias in favour of the accused.

“The manner in which the police are harassing the victim’s family and their supporters, yet appearing to shield the accused, is utterly wrong and condemnable,” Thakur said, warning that such incidents will not be tolerated in Devbhumi Himachal.

The BJP leader claimed the police response has been prejudiced from the outset, alleging that officers have taken no meaningful action against the accused or their supporters, while continuing to intimidate the victim’s relatives. Calling the situation an insult to the BJP and to the people of the state, he vowed that “such conduct will not be accepted.”

Thakur further alleged that reliable sources suggest the missing girl was forcibly converted to another faith—an act that, he noted, is illegal under the Himachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion (Amendment) Act, 2022, which prescribes penalties of up to ten years in prison for forced conversions. Despite this, he said, the police have taken “no decisive steps.”

Appealing to the government and administration, Thakur demanded an “impartial and just investigation so the victim’s family receives justice and communal harmony is preserved.” He warned that if what he called “politically motivated actions” continue, the BJP will raise the issue “from the streets to the Assembly.”