Protests Erupt in Meerut Over Sonu Kashyap Murder; Family Alleges Police Shielding Accused

Meerut: Tensions escalated in Meerut on Friday as hundreds of protesters from the Kashyap community and the Nishad Party gathered at the Commissionerate Park demanding justice for the murder of Rohit, also known as Sonu Kashyap, in the Sardhana area of Meerut district, Uttar Pradesh. The administration had deployed two companies each of police and RPF personnel from the morning to manage the situation, but controlling the agitated crowd proved challenging. Protesters warned that the sit-in at the Commissionerate Park would continue until justice is served.

Family Accuses Police of Shielding Accused
In an emotional appeal, Sonu Kashyap’s elder sister, Aarti Kashyap, accused the police of protecting the real perpetrators. She claimed that multiple individuals were involved in her brother’s murder, but the authorities have yet to name all the culprits. Aarti further alleged that supporters attempting to reach the protest site were being stopped along the way, restricting public participation in the demonstration.

Kashyap Community and Nishad Party Join the Stir
Members of the Kashyap community and Nishad Party activists actively participated in the protests, chanting slogans and staging a sit-in. In response, the administration placed barricades around the park and deployed heavy police presence on all access routes. Officers continuously monitored the situation to prevent any untoward incidents.

Demands of the Family and Community
The family and community members presented five key demands to the government and administration:

1. Immediate financial assistance for Sonu Kashyap’s family to meet daily needs.
2. A government job for Aarti Kashyap, as she now bears responsibility for the family after the sole breadwinner’s death.
3. Provision of police security for the family, as other perpetrators are reportedly still at large, posing a threat.
4. Return of ₹80,000 that was with Sonu and allegedly looted by the accused.
5. A thorough and impartial investigation into the case to ensure no innocent person is falsely implicated.

The family emphasized that the police have yet to conduct a proper investigation, and several accused remain free. The protests signal growing public unrest and the urgent demand for justice in Meerut.