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The Role of Ex-AAP Councillor Tahir Hussain in the Northeast Delhi Riots: An In-depth Analysis

April 06, 2025Literature4926
The Role of Ex-AAP Councillor Tahir Hussain in the Northeast Delhi Rio

The Role of Ex-AAP Councillor Tahir Hussain in the Northeast Delhi Riots: An In-depth Analysis

In the aftermath of the 2020 Northeast Delhi Riots, a complex web of political maneuvering and community tensions came to the fore. Central to the narrative is the role of Kapil Mishra, the instigator of the riots, and the subsequent actions of Ex-AAP Councillor Tahir Hussain. This article delves into the factors and actions that hampered the anti-NRC CAA agitation and the subsequent involvement of Mr. Hussain in the violence.

Instigation and Suppression

Kapil Mishra, a prominent figure within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), was directly responsible for instigating the riots. The BJP and its sister parties sought to suppress the anti-NRC and CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act) agitation from the beginning. Their strategy involved portraying the agitation as violent and using excessive police force against the protesters.

When these tactics proved ineffective, Mishra, along with the party workers and supporters, stepped in. He delivered inflammatory speeches at the sites of the agitation, particularly at the rally organized in the presence of Ved Prakash Surya, the DCP of the North East Delhi district. Mishra's aim was to intimidate the police into removing the protesters, threatening to take matters into his own hands within a three-day timeframe.

Threats and Instigation

Following the rally, Mishra posted a video threatening the police on Twitter. This act quickly escalated the situation. Within hours, violent clashes broke out between Mishra's supporters and the anti-CAA protesters. These clashes underscored the chaotic and volatile situation in the northeast Delhi area.

The Role of Ex-AAP Councillor Tahir Hussain

Ex-AAP Councillor Tahir Hussain played a critical role in intensifying the conflict. He recognized the threat posed by the BJP and its supporters to his area and saw no viable hope from the police. In response, he took proactive steps to protect his community.

Hussain arranged and distributed petrol bombs, bricks, and sticks to local boys. His intention was to fend off any potential attacks on his area and his supporters. This action was not only a testament to the tensions prevailing but also a reflection of the natural human inclination to protect oneself during times of strife.

Attacks and Counterattacks

The attacks were primarily carried out by outsiders, rather than local residents of the specific area. However, Hussain and his supporters did not remain passive. They attacked outsiders from the comforts of Hussain's home, using the roof as a strategic vantage point. This tactic effectively countered the BJP-sponsored attacks and protected the area from further harm.

It is crucial to note that human tendencies in times of conflict often involve self-preservation. Hussain's actions, while questionable in their legality, reflect the complex and often unpredictable nature of communal violence during such tumultuous periods.

Conclusion

The 2020 Northeast Delhi Riots were a complex and multifaceted event. While Kapil Mishra and the BJP played a central role in instigating and instilling violence, Tahir Hussain's actions highlighted the depth of community tensions and the often unpredictable nature of communal strife. Understanding and addressing these underlining issues is critical to preventing such violence in the future.

Final Thoughts

As we reflect on this event, it is imperative to recognize the layers of political manipulation and the deep-seated community tensions that fueled the riots. The actions of individuals like Hussain and Mishra serve as stark reminders of the need for a balanced and equitable approach to resolving such conflicts. Moving forward requires both a deep understanding of the issues at play and a commitment to peaceful resolution.