AGRA: A 65-year-old man and his younger son were arrested in UP’s Hathras on Tuesday after he publicly disowned and humiliated his older son and his wife over suspicion of “converting to Christianity”.According to local residents, Shivraj Singh, 65, demanded a “social boycott” of his son and his family at a village panchayat on Monday and forced the couple to wear a “garland of shoes” in public. Purported videos of the panchayat later surfaced, sparking outrage and drawing cops’ attention.Balram Singh, 40, was staying in Agra with wife, Meena Devi, 38, and their son, 16. He earns a living there by operating swing rides at fairs. Trouble began for Balram after he recently decided to return to his native village, Garaw Garhi in Hathras district, with his family.Balram’s father grew “suspicious” after noticing changes in his behavior such as “avoiding greetings and prasad”. On Monday, a heated argument broke out between the two and a panchayat backed by villagers was convened later that day. Balram’s brother, Tarachand, 38, also allegedly joined in and assaulted his sibling. A police team later reached the place and initiated an inquiry.Mursan area circle officer Yogendra Krishna Narayan said, “An FIR was registered under BNSS 170 (preventive arrests without warrant). Shivraj and Tarachand have been arrested… Necessary legal steps will be taken as per law.”Efforts are on to examine the role of others present at Monday’s panchayat, police added.(Input from Sumit Sharma in Hathras)
