Tension in Delhi’s Uttam Nagar after Holi clash death; four arrested, roads blocked

The unrest follows the death of Tarun, 26, who was seriously injured in a clash between two neighbouring families belonging to different communities during Holi celebrations on Wednesday.

• Man dies after Holi clash in Uttam Nagar, sparking unrest
• Police arrest five suspects, including one juvenile, in the case
• Heavy security deployed; authorities urge residents to stay calm

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Tensions flared in southwest Delhi’s Uttam Nagar on Friday after a 26-year-old man died following a clash during Holi celebrations, triggering protests, traffic blockades, and incidents of arson in the area.

Police said a car and a motorcycle were set on fire in the JJ Colony area on Friday afternoon. At the same time, protesters blocked a major road near the Uttam Nagar East Metro station for several hours, demanding strict action against those responsible for the killing.

According to officials, members of the Bajrang Dal and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad staged a protest under the metro station, with several demonstrators sitting on the road and raising slogans. The agitation brought traffic to a standstill, leaving long queues of vehicles and even ambulances stranded.

Police personnel struggled to disperse the crowd and restore normal traffic movement. A senior officer said mild force had to be used after repeated appeals to the protesters to clear the road failed.

“Our teams worked to remove protesters so vehicular movement could resume. Several ambulances were also stuck in traffic,” the officer said.

Heavy security deployment was made in the locality, with additional police and paramilitary personnel deployed to prevent any escalation. Police also used drones to monitor the protest and identify those involved in blocking roads.

The unrest follows the death of Tarun, 26, who was seriously injured in a clash between two neighbouring families belonging to different communities during Holi celebrations on Wednesday.

According to police, the altercation began when coloured water from a balloon splashed onto a woman, leading to a heated argument that soon escalated into a violent fight. Several people from both sides sustained injuries.

Tarun was rushed to hospital but later died during treatment.

Family members of the deceased alleged that he was attacked by a group of people when he returned home later, claiming he had no involvement in the earlier dispute. They demanded that all those responsible be arrested.

According to the police, four people have been arrested and a juvenile apprehended in connection with the case. Investigators are examining CCTV footage and recording witness statements to establish the sequence of events.

“We have registered an FIR, arrested four accused and apprehended one juvenile. Further investigation is underway,” said Deputy Commissioner of Police (Dwarka) Kushal Pal Singh.

Authorities said security will remain heightened in the area and appealed to residents to maintain peace and not pay heed to rumours.