Death Threats to Devotional Singer Hansraj Raghuvanshi Spark Security Alarm in Himachal Pradesh

Threats to a Cultural Icon

Munish Sood
Mandi

The recent threats directed at renowned devotional artist Hansraj Raghuvanshi, known for his popular bhajan “Mera Bhola Hai Bhandari,” have created a stir in the typically serene cultural environment of Himachal Pradesh. Reports indicate that the singer and his family received death threats along with a demand for ₹15 lakh, leading local authorities to initiate an investigation.

As per sources, a man named Rahul Kumar Nagde from Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, made a threatening phone call claiming ties to the infamous Lawrence Bishnoi and Goldy Brar gangs. He allegedly warned of dire consequences for the singer’s wife, mother, and team members if the ransom was not paid.

The Zirakpur Police in Mohali have filed a case based on a complaint from the singer’s personal security guard, Vijay Kataria, and have commenced an inquiry under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Initial investigations reveal that the suspect had previously met Hansraj Raghuvanshi during a visit to the Shri Mahakaal Temple in Ujjain around 2021-22.

A Growing Trend of Intimidation

This incident, while alarming, is not an isolated case. It reflects a disturbing trend of threats and intimidation targeting notable individuals in Himachal Pradesh, including politicians, business leaders, and officials.

Earlier this year, Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri and Congress MLA Rakesh Kalia faced death threats on social media, which surfaced following the arrest of a local gangster. The threatening posts included alarming messages suggesting violence against politicians.

The Haroli Police Station registered this case, and the state’s Cyber Crime Cell is investigating potential links to organized crime networks. This incident marks one of the first instances of direct digital threats against a sitting minister in the state’s history.

In a similar vein, a businessman from Palampur recently approached the Himachal Pradesh High Court, alleging harassment and threats from influential individuals over a property dispute. The High Court instructed the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to include charges related to extortion and intimidation, highlighting how threats are increasingly being used in civil matters.

Challenges to Law and Order

Himachal Pradesh has long been regarded as one of India’s most peaceful states. However, a series of recent incidents, including gang-related extortion and social media threats, are prompting authorities to reassess the state’s security measures.

Officials indicate that the name of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang is being exploited by individual extortionists to instill fear, particularly among high-profile individuals. Reports of such threats are emerging from various regions, including Mandi, Kangra, Una, and Baddi, indicating a troubling trend of intimidation spreading beyond urban areas.

Experts note that with the rise of internet access, even remote towns are now vulnerable to cyber-enabled criminal activities that prey on fear and notoriety.

Call for Enhanced Security Measures

Security experts and former law enforcement officials advocate for the establishment of a specialized anti-extortion and cyber-intelligence unit in Himachal Pradesh, integrating local policing with digital surveillance.

“Threats made via WhatsApp or social media are serious and can escalate quickly, especially when public figures are involved. The state requires a proactive approach rather than merely reactive measures,” remarked a senior retired IPS officer.

In light of the recent threats, security around Hansraj Raghuvanshi has been intensified, and his movements are under close observation. Authorities are also collaborating with their counterparts in Madhya Pradesh to investigate the suspect’s criminal history and gang affiliations.

Cultural Spaces Under Siege

The stark contrast is evident: a singer celebrated for his spiritual music is now facing threats from gangsters, illustrating the encroachment of organized crime into previously tranquil cultural domains.

Moreover, the threats against politicians and business figures indicate that no one is safe. Whether driven by financial gain, influence, or sheer criminal audacity, these actions collectively undermine the law-and-order perception in the hill state.

The case involving Hansraj Raghuvanshi could signify a pivotal moment in the narrative surrounding internal security in Himachal Pradesh. Once primarily known for its spiritual heritage and serene landscapes, the state is now grappling with the harsh realities of modern intimidation—merging the worlds of celebrity, politics, and crime.

For the residents of Himachal, the message is clear: vigilance and prompt reporting of threats are crucial to preserving both the peace and the reputation of the “Dev Bhoomi.”