Etah (Uttar Pradesh): The Etah Police has issued a detailed clarification regarding a viral video alleging a caste-based attack on a Jatav wedding procession in the district, calling the claims misleading and potentially inflammatory.
The controversy began after a video circulated widely on social media platform X, in which a woman from the Jatav community alleged that members of the Shakya community stopped their wedding baraat, hurled casteist slurs, and assaulted participants. The video triggered concerns about rising caste tensions in the region.
However, police officials have presented a different version of events. According to authorities, the incident occurred under the jurisdiction of the Sakit Police Station on the night between February 10 and 11.
Police Version of Events
Police stated that the Jatav wedding procession proceeded without obstruction. During the return journey, members of the procession allegedly entered a Shakya family’s engagement ceremony, where music was being played and guests were celebrating.
According to the police investigation, some individuals from the Jatav group reportedly entered the venue uninvited, demanded that the DJ music be stopped, and engaged in abusive behaviour. This allegedly led to a clash between the two sides, resulting in injuries to two Shakya youths.
The Shakya family subsequently filed a complaint.
Authorities further identified the woman seen in the viral video as the wife of one of the accused from the Jatav side. Police stated that the video was recorded after the incident and allegedly intended to shift blame onto the Shakya community.
Official Statement
Additional Superintendent of Police Shwetabh Pandey released a video statement on X, clarifying that the Jatav wedding procession was not attacked. He termed the viral claims “misleading and incorrect,” adding that legal action is being taken based on the complaint received.
Police also indicated that there were attempts to frame the matter under provisions of the SC/ST Act against the Shakya community, but said their investigation prevented any misuse of the law.
Social Context
In Uttar Pradesh, the Jatav community is classified under the Scheduled Caste category, while the Shakya community falls under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category.
The incident has underscored the sensitivity of caste-related allegations and the role of social media in amplifying unverified narratives. Police have urged citizens to refrain from spreading unverified claims and to rely on official statements.
Further investigation is ongoing.
