Escaping Violence: Migrants Flee as Tensions Rise in Haryana
Tensions have flared in the Nuh district of Haryana, where clashes between a group linked to the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and young men during a religious procession have left migrant workers from Hindu and Muslim communities frightened for their safety. Many are considering leaving their homes in Gurugram and nearby regions until the situation improves.
A man named Ali, residing in a slum in Sector 70A Gurugram, shared his distressing experience. He revealed that on a Tuesday night, some individuals on motorcycles came to their area, warning them to leave the city or face their slum being set on fire. Though the police were present, Ali’s family was gripped by fear, deciding to leave the city temporarily. Ali expressed hope to return when conditions improve.
Ali isn’t alone in his decision. Numerous other residents of Gurugram, a city that has been a source of livelihood for countless migrants, are also contemplating leaving. The unease isn’t limited to one community; both Muslims from Wazirabad, Ghata village, and Badshahpur and some Hindu migrants from Nuh, are packing their bags.
Bamisha Khatun, who came to Gurugram from West Bengal three years ago in search of work, told PTI that fear for her safety and belongings has driven her to return to her hometown. She currently resides in a slum in Sector 70A. Similarly, Hindu migrants from Nuh are making the difficult decision to leave due to a curfew imposed to restore law and order.
Jagdish, a native of Madhya Pradesh, shared his concerns about the ongoing communal clashes and expressed his intention to return home until the situation stabilizes. He disclosed that around 400 Hindu families have been compelled to leave the city due to the turmoil.
Ram Avatar, living in Gurugram with his family and hailing from Uttar Pradesh, mentioned that Hindu families have been steadily departing since the clashes began. Even people from areas like Manesar, Teekli, Kasan, and IMT are contemplating returning to their hometowns due to rising apprehensions.
Despite the growing number of departures, a senior police officer assured that the situation in Gurugram is under control. Deputy Commissioner Nishant Kumar Yadav emphasized their commitment to the safety of residents and urged them not to fear. He acknowledged the ongoing efforts to build confidence among residents, including those in residential welfare associations and slum areas.
The violence has had grave consequences, with six fatalities reported thus far. The authorities have taken action by arresting 116 individuals, detaining 90, and filing 44 First Information Reports (FIRs) in connection to the clashes. The violence has not only affected Haryana but has also spread to neighbouring regions like Delhi and Rajasthan’s Bhiwani.
In conclusion, as communal tensions escalate in Haryana’s Nuh district, the safety of migrant workers from various communities is at risk. Many are choosing to temporarily leave their homes in Gurugram and adjacent areas until the situation improves. The authorities are taking measures to restore peace and security, urging residents not to succumb to fear.