Uttarakhand High Court Reacts Strongly to Roorkee Violence
The Uttarakhand High Court has taken serious note of a violent clash between independent MLA Umesh Kumar (Khanpur) and former BJP MLA Kunwar Pranav Singh Champion in Roorkee on January 26. Describing the incident as “unfortunate, shameless, and shocking,” the court emphasized that such acts damage the reputation of Uttarakhand, known as “Dev Bhoomi” (Land of the Gods).
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A bench led by Justice Rakesh Thapliyal directed the Haridwar District Magistrate and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) to submit detailed affidavits by February 11. These must include video evidence, FIR copies, investigation updates, and actions taken against the accused. The court stressed that political leaders must uphold public trust, stating:
“Such brazen acts of violence by political figures are shocking and shameful. These incidents are intolerable and harm the state’s image.”
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Background
On Republic Day, Champion allegedly arrived at MLA Umesh Kumar’s office in Khanpur with supporters, brandishing firearms. Reports claim he fired shots and assaulted people in broad daylight. Kumar retaliated by wielding a gun. A viral social media video shows Champion’s group shooting at the MLA’s house, hurling abuses, and pelting stones. The footage also captures Champion firing again before fleeing in a car.
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The court revealed that 19 criminal cases are pending against both individuals in various courts. It ordered authorities to disclose all pending cases in their affidavits and ensure strict law and order in Haridwar. Highlighting the role of elected representatives, the bench remarked:
“Public confidence in MPs and MLAs is crucial for a functional democracy. Such behavior betrays that trust.”
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Champion, previously expelled by the BJP in 2019 for indiscipline, was reinstated a year later. He has since been arrested in connection with this incident.
The next hearing on February 11 will determine whether authorities have acted decisively to address this disgraceful episode. For now, the people of Uttarakhand await justice—and a reaffirmation of peace in their sacred land.