On Camera: Irate Shopkeeper Sets Property Ablaze Amid Anti-Demolition Protest In Varanasi’s Daalmandi

Varanasi: Tension gripped the bustling Daalmandi area of Varanasi on Tuesday after a shopkeeper allegedly set his own building on fire in protest against an ongoing road-widening and demolition drive. The dramatic incident, which was caught on camera, sparked panic in the crowded market locality and prompted the deployment of heavy police and firefighting forces.

According to officials, the incident occurred around noon when teams from the municipal corporation and local administration were carrying out demolition work on structures marked for removal as part of the road expansion project. Authorities had identified 21 buildings for action on the day and had already demolished five shops when the situation escalated.

Shopkeeper Allegedly Sets Building On Fire

Eyewitnesses claimed that amid rising anger over the demolition, one shopkeeper climbed onto the roof of his building carrying petrol. Moments later, he allegedly poured the fuel and set the structure ablaze, sending thick plumes of smoke and flames into the air.

The sudden fire triggered chaos across the narrow lanes of Daalmandi, with shopkeepers, workers and pedestrians scrambling to move to safety. Panic intensified after reports emerged that women were present inside the building at the time of the fire.

Fire Brigade, Police Rush To Control Situation

Fire brigade teams, senior police officers and administrative officials rushed to the spot to contain the blaze. The area was immediately cordoned off, and demolition workers were evacuated as a precautionary measure. It reportedly took considerable time for firefighters to bring the fire under control due to the congested surroundings and the intensity of the flames.

The Additional District Magistrate (City) is personally monitoring the situation, officials said, as authorities worked to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby structures in the densely packed commercial area.

Accused Absconding, Several Detained

After allegedly setting the building on fire, the shopkeeper fled the scene. Police have launched a search operation to trace and apprehend him. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Kashi Zone) confirmed that four individuals accused of creating unrest during the protest have been detained, while another person has been arrested for attempting to disturb public order.

Law enforcement agencies remain on high alert in the area to prevent further incidents, officials added.

Demolition Drive Continues Amid Protests

Despite strong resistance from traders, the demolition drive in Daalmandi is continuing under tight security. Additional police forces have been deployed to maintain law and order as authorities push ahead with the road-widening project.

Traders have alleged that several buildings were declared dilapidated without adequate prior notice, sparking anger and fear of livelihood loss. However, the administration has denied these claims, stating that due process was followed before marking structures for demolition.

187 Structures Marked For Removal

Officials said that a total of 187 structures have been identified for demolition in the Daalmandi area as part of the infrastructure upgrade. So far, 29 structures have already been removed during the month-and-a-half-long campaign.

Authorities have reiterated that the demolition exercise is essential for improving traffic flow and public safety in one of Varanasi’s most congested commercial zones. Security remains heightened to prevent any further escalation of tensions.