New Delhi, 24 April (H.S.):

The Delhi High Court has ordered the Delhi Police to ensure protection for the family members of Tarun Bhutolia, a 26‑year‑old man allegedly killed during a violent clash in Uttam Nagar during Holi celebrations. A bench headed by Justice Girish Kathpalia directed the Additional Police Commissioner (APC) to instruct the concerned Station House Officer (SHO) to provide adequate security to the victim’s family, including making the SHO’s mobile number available so that the family can contact him in any emergency.

Tarun Bhutolia’s family had moved the High Court after registering concerns about their safety and alleging threats from persons linked to the accused. They sought not only personal security but also the removal of inflammatory videos circulating on social media that they said were fuelling tension and communal hostility.

During the hearing, Delhi Police submitted that local cops are already active and will extend all possible protection, noting that CCTV cameras have been installed in the lane where the family resides and that police pickets have been deployed in the area to maintain communal harmony. The force also stated that about 250 abusive and provocative videos had been taken down from social‑media platforms.

On this basis, the court ordered the APC to formally instruct the SHO to ensure that the family receives robust security cover. The case is linked to the killing of 26‑year‑old Tarun Bhutolia on March 4, 2026, when, according to the family’s plea, a minor altercation related to a Holi balloon escalated into a violent melee, resulting in his death. The incident, involving members of the Muslim community, was quickly given a communal colour, heightening tensions in the neighbourhood.

Earlier, on March 19, the High Court, in a petition prompted by threats of “blood‑soaked Holi”, had already directed police and the local administration to maintain strict law‑and‑order and peace in Uttam Nagar, warning against any attempt to disturb communal harmony during religious festivals.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar