Srinagar: A group of activists from the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP), some reportedly armed, have been accused of attacking Muslim-owned businesses in the Doda district of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), intensifying communal tensions in the area.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the incidents occurred during the night of August 13-14. Led by Anirudh Bhau, the VHP district president for Doda, the group allegedly stormed a local shop at Nehru Chowk, accusing the owner of illegal activities. Bhau, armed with a sword, and his associates wielding iron rods and canes, were reported to have filmed their raid, heightening the atmosphere of intimidation.

Further reports from The Wire reveal that Bhau is closely associated with several high-profile BJP and RSS figures, which has raised concerns about the possible sanctioning of his actions by authorities. On August 15, Bhau reportedly escalated his campaign by threatening the owner of a bakery on Bharat Road, demanding the closure of the business under threat of death.

Local activist Hassan Babur Nehru has publicly condemned these actions, questioning the apparent official backing Bhau receives, highlighted by his possession of a US-made pistol, supposedly licensed by the home ministry. The local Muslim community has expressed outrage, accusing the police of complicity and demanding accountability, particularly in light of a widely circulated video showing residents demanding justice.

This recent surge in violence is part of a broader pattern of attacks by Hindu right-wing groups in the Jammu region, contributing to a climate of fear and tension among the Muslim populace.

Despite assurances from the Doda police regarding investigations and potential actions against the perpetrators, the community remains doubtful, given past instances of similar incidents where effective legal recourse was lacking.