The mother of 26-year-old Tarun, who died after a clash between neighbours in Delhi’s Uttam Nagar during Holi celebrations, has demanded strict action against the accused. She said the family is still waiting for justice and claims they have not been informed about the identities of those arrested.
Speaking to reporters, the grieving mother alleged that the incident began over a minor dispute involving a water balloon thrown by her seven-year-old niece. She expressed frustration over the lack of updates from authorities and said she would feel peace only when strong action is taken against those responsible. Referring to what she described as “Yogi-style justice,” she said she wants the accused punished in the same manner criminals are dealt with in Uttar Pradesh under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
According to her account, the altercation began when a water balloon thrown by her niece accidentally splashed a few drops of water on a woman named Saira. “My seven-year-old niece was playing on the second floor when the balloon slipped from her hand. A few drops of water fell on the woman. After that, she started threatening the child,” the mother alleged. She further claimed that the woman later called several people to the spot.
The situation quickly escalated, she said, as a group of around 20–25 people, including both men and women, gathered at the location later that night. Tarun, she claimed, was unaware of the developing confrontation before the violence broke out.
Describing the alleged attack, the mother said she too was assaulted during the incident. She alleged that a woman struck her with a rod and that several family members—including her husband, brother-in-law and son—were beaten during the clash. She also claimed that the attackers made casteist remarks during the assault.
Expressing disappointment, she said no Dalit leaders had visited the family after the incident and called on authorities in Delhi to ensure justice. She also questioned why the chief minister had not yet met the family.
Tarun’s father also demanded strict punishment for those involved. Thanking people who have protested in support of the family, he said they are seeking justice for their son and want the accused to face severe consequences.
He claimed the family had no prior dispute with those accused of the attack. However, he alleged there had been earlier tensions over how some neighbours treated stray dogs in the area, which sometimes led to arguments with local children.
According to him, the confrontation intensified after the balloon incident. He alleged that a large group arrived with sticks and stones, attacked the family, and vandalised their house before the police arrived.
The incident has also reached the courts. On March 10, the Delhi High Court directed the Municipal Corporation of Delhi not to demolish the homes of the accused until the matter is heard further.
Police officials said the clash occurred on March 4 after a dispute reportedly broke out over a balloon during Holi celebrations. The argument later escalated into a violent altercation in which Tarun was allegedly assaulted. He later died from his injuries.
