Massive Police Deployment in Pratapgarh: Raja Bhaiya’s Father Placed Under House Arrest Amid Muharram Tensions

A tense atmosphere gripped Pratapgarh as heavy police forces took to the streets, imposing strict security measures around the residence of Kunda MLA Raghuraj Pratap Singh, popularly known as Raja Bhaiya. The police not only stationed themselves at Raja Bhaiya’s Bhadri Palace but also placed his father, Raja Uday Pratap Singh, under house arrest. Thousands of supporters were also put under surveillance or house arrest.

The reason for these unprecedented security arrangements is the potential for Hindu-Muslim conflict during Muharram. Authorities acted to prevent any communal tension, given the area’s sensitive history, particularly involving Raja Uday Pratap Singh and an old dispute over religious processions and events.

Background of the Dispute

The roots of the issue date back to 2012, when a monkey died by the roadside in Sheikhpur village, Kunda. Villagers built a Hanuman temple at the spot, and Raja Uday Pratap Singh began organizing religious feasts (bhandaras) there, specifically on the 10th day of Muharram. In 2013 and 2014, both the bhandara and the Muharram procession took place simultaneously without major incident.

However, in 2015, the Muslim community protested against the bhandara and the display of religious flags at the Hanuman temple, refusing to carry out their traditional tazia procession. The matter escalated to the police and district administration, who intervened to maintain peace. Tensions rose again in 2016 when the administration denied permission for the bhandara, leading to the issue being taken to the High Court. The court left the final decision to the district magistrate’s discretion.

Since then, Raja Uday Pratap Singh has been placed under house arrest every Muharram to prevent any unrest. Between 2016 and 2025, he has reportedly been detained in this manner eight times. This year, once again, both Raja Bhaiya’s father and his supporters were put under house arrest as a precaution.

Enhanced Security Measures

In anticipation of Muharram, the police and administration have implemented robust security arrangements. Drone cameras are being used to monitor the entire district, especially sensitive locations, procession routes, and crowded areas. Orders have been issued for immediate action against any suspicious activity, and social media is also under surveillance.

This year, 13 individuals, including Raja Bhaiya’s father, have been placed under house arrest. Over 1,000 people across the district have been restricted under preventive measures to ensure the festival passes peacefully. Additional police and PAC forces have been deployed from outside districts, and all hotspot areas and procession routes are being jointly patrolled by police and administrative teams.

Authorities have assured that with the help of CCTV, drone surveillance, and active intelligence gathering, they are committed to maintaining peace during the festival. Preventive actions under various legal sections (such as 107/16, 126, 135 BASS) have been taken against people with a history of involvement in communal disputes, to ensure no one disturbs the peace during Muharram.

Reporting from Pratapgarh, Sunil Yadav for UP Tak.