Communal tensions escalated in Bahraich after violence broke out during Durga idol immersion, resulting in one youth’s death. The incident sparked protests, and late-night arrests were made.
In Maharajganj town of Mahsi tehsil, Bahraich district, a dispute over music during the immersion procession turned violent on Sunday evening. Youths from another community started stone-pelting, damaging the Durga idol. Protesters demonstrated, and six police stations and PAC personnel were deployed.
Eyewitnesses claim the Mahsi tehsil procession was peaceful until it reached Maharajganj. Sonar Abdul Hamid, along with his sons, started abusing and pelting stones. Protesters demonstrated, and Hamid’s supporters arrived, sparking riots.
A youth, Ramgopal Mishra (24), was allegedly shot dead, and another, Rajan (28), was seriously injured while trying to save him. Around a dozen others were injured.
SP Vrinda Shukla suspended Hardi police station in-charge Suresh Kumar Verma and Mahsi outpost in-charge Shiv Kumar for negligence.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ordered strict action against rioters and instructed officials to ensure immersion processions continue uninterrupted.
Late-night protests and arson erupted across Bahraich, with demands for the accused’s arrest and death penalty. The main accused, Salman, and several others were booked, and 20-25 people were detained.
The District Magistrate and SP faced protests and demands for action. Vehicles were set ablaze, and banners were burned.
The violence spread to other areas, including Gonda and Balrampur, during immersion processions.
The administration was caught off guard, and senior officials scrambled to control the situation.
Protesters blocked the Bahraich-Sitapur highway and demonstrated against the police administration.
CM Yogi Adityanath appealed to religious organizations to maintain peace.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with demands for stringent action against the accused and responsible authorities.
