Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath acknowledged the communal clashes in Bahraich district and emphasized that those responsible will face consequences. He also instructed local authorities to ensure the peaceful conduct of Durga idol immersion ceremonies.
22 years old man lost his life and several others were injured during clashes between two groups in a village in Uttar Pradesh Bahraich, triggered by disputes over playing music during a Durga idol immersion procession.
Following the incident tensions escalated as multiple vehicles were set ablaze leading the police to use force to restore order.
The clashes broke out when stones were thrown and gunshots fired at the procession as it passed through Bahraich Mahrajganj Bazar area.
Following the incident the Bahraich Police detained at least 30 individuals. One man identified as Salman was arrested after evidence showed shots were fired at the procession from his home and shop.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath addressed the situation stating that those responsible will face strict action.
In a post on X he stated Those responsible for disrupting law and order in Bahraich Mahsi district will not be spared. Safety is assured for everyone but instructions have been given to identify the rioters and those whose negligence contributed to the incident and take strict action against them.
He added the immersion of idols will proceed as planned. Administration and police officials have been instructed to be present at the site and engage with religious organizations to ensure the smooth completion of the idol immersion process.
According to the police man named Ram Gopal Mishra who was part of the procession was shot. He was taken to a hospital but died during treatment a family member confirmed.
Mishra family has refused to perform his last rites stating they will not proceed with the funeral until the suspects are arrested.
Meanwhile Bahraich Superintendent of Police Vrinda Shukla suspended two police officials for negligence.
Thirty people have been detained. One of the accused Salman whose home was the source of gunshots has been arrested. The Durga idol immersion has resumed. We are reviewing videos of the incident to identify other suspects Shukla said.
SAMAJWADI PARTY LEADER APPEALS FOR CALM
Speaking to a news agency Samajwadi Party (SP) leader ST Hasan urged people not to take the law into their own hands.
No community should provoke or agitate another. There should be no stone-pelting or lawlessness. The right approach is to report grievances to the authorities. Unfortunately people incite communal tensions ST Hasan said.
He added Loudspeakers playing music near mosques during Namaz often escalate into Hindu/Muslim conflicts in these areas. This weakens both the country and society. Action should be taken against those who break the law.
