Dehradun Assault Case Takes New Turn as Shopkeeper’s Wife Alleges Molestation by Kashmiri Youths

Dehradun: The assault case involving two Kashmiri youths in Vikasnagar market, Dehradun, has taken a fresh turn after the wife of the arrested shopkeeper filed a counter-complaint, alleging indecent behaviour and attempted molestation by the youths.

The shopkeeper, Sanjay Yadav, was arrested earlier in connection with the assault and was produced before a court on Friday, which remanded him to 14 days of judicial custody.

Woman Alleges Indecent Gestures and Physical Harassment

In her written complaint submitted at Vikasnagar Kotwali, the shopkeeper’s wife alleged that the two youths from Jammu and Kashmir visited their shop under the pretext of buying goods and made obscene gestures. She further claimed that when she objected, one of them held her hand and attempted to pull her towards him.

According to her statement, her husband intervened to stop the youths, following which the situation escalated into a physical altercation.

Speaking to the media, the woman rejected the youths’ claim that they were questioned about their religion or identity.
“We have been running this shop for 30–32 years. We are here to do business, not to ask customers whether they are Hindu or Muslim before selling goods,” she said.

She further alleged that the youths attacked her husband and called others to the spot, worsening the situation.

Kashmiri Youths’ Allegations

The incident occurred on January 28 at a shop on Dakpatthar Road, Vikasnagar, when two brothers, Danish and Tawish, residents of Jammu and Kashmir, visited the shop to buy snacks.

In his complaint to the police, Danish stated that their father lives in Paonta Sahib, Himachal Pradesh, where the family works as street vendors. The brothers had come during holidays to assist their father in selling shawls and suits.

Danish alleged that the shopkeeper first asked about their names and address and, upon learning they were from Kashmir, used caste-based and communal slurs. He further claimed that when they protested, the shopkeeper and two unidentified men assaulted them with sticks, causing injuries.

The younger brother reportedly sustained a serious head injury and a fractured hand.

Police Action and Ongoing Investigation

Based on the initial complaint, police registered a case against Sanjay Yadav and arrested him. Following the counter-complaint filed by the shopkeeper’s wife, police have confirmed that both versions are under investigation.

Officials stated that all allegations—including claims of sexual misconduct, communal abuse and physical assault—are being examined, and further action will be taken based on evidence and witness statements.

Authorities Urge Restraint

Police have urged the public to avoid speculation and refrain from giving the incident a communal colour while the investigation is ongoing. Officials emphasised that law and evidence will determine responsibility, and no conclusions should be drawn prematurely.