The youth armed with knives in hands thronged the Kesri Bagh market late last night and started demanding money from shopkeepers. They even beat up the traders when they refused to pay up. Some shopkeepers challenged the youth and nabbed two of them, but the others managed to flee. Ironically, police personnel present there remained mere spectators and reacted only when the matter reached senior authorities.

“They have made life hell for shopkeepers. But we will not tolerate any more harassment and will stage a dharna in front of the SSP’s office if action is not taken,” said Ravinder Singh Sultanwind. Other shopkeepers, including Anil Kumar, Nanak Singh and Subhash, said they were getting threat calls for speaking against the youth.