Unfurling the tricolour on Independence Day proved lethal for a youth of Dangodih village in Jamshedpur district, who paid with his life for displaying his patriotism.
According to reports, Shubhan, a Muslim youth, dared to hoist the National Flag on August 15, in spite of threats from some youths of the same community. He was reportedly asked to unfurl the Pakistani flag on August 14 - Pakistan's independence day.
Some anti-social elements named Nausad, Shabeer, Naim and others had asked Shubhan to unfurl the Pakistani flag and had threatened him with dire consequences if he hoisted the Tricolour. However, the victim went on to unfurl the National flag on Independence Day and even distributed sweets among the villagers. During the celebrations, the unruly gang appeared on the scene and asked Shubhan to stop playing the national song on the loudspeaker. Consequently, a scuffle took place between two groups, but the matter was settled by elders of the area.
However, the anti-social group wanted to teach Shubhan a lesson. On Sunday evening, when Shubhan was returning home along with his friends he was spotted by the gang. They then attacked Shubhan and his friends with swords and sticks.
The injured were taken to the local
hospital, from where they were referred to the Mahatma Gandhi Medical Hospital
in Jamshedpur. However, Shubhan succumbed to his injuries on Monday morning.
"The problem began with the playing of the loudspeaker. We are investigating
the case and will act according to the report," Jamshedpur Superintendent
of Police Arun Oraon told The Pioneer. He said, "the flag dispute story
is to yet to be substantiated".