NEW DELHI, Aug 16: Communal clashes broke out in Udaipur in Rajasthan and Nashik in Maharashtra for different reasons on Friday and the police said the situation in both the cities were brought under control by evening.
In Rajasthan, communal tensions gripped the Madhuban area in Udaipur after a Class 10 student was stabbed by a fellow classmate at a government-run school, officials said. As the tension escalated, markets were shut in Bapu Bazar, Hathipole, Ghanta Ghar, Chetak Circle and nearby areas. Prohibitory orders including Section 144 was imposed in the city. It was not immediately known what led to the stabbing at the government school located at Bhattiyani Chohatta area.
The victim, who is now in a stable condition in a hospital ICU, was falsely rumoured to have lost his life in the incident. Following the rumours, arson and vandalism reportedly erupted across multiple locations in the city, with several vehicles set on fire. In response to the violence, Section 144 was imposed in Udaipur to prevent further disturbances and ensure public safety. The authorities are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident.
According to District Collector Arvind Poswal, the injured student was currently in a stable condition in the ICU. The accused, along with his father, has been arrested. Poswal urged residents to avoid spreading rumours and reassured the public that the situation was being closely monitored.
In response to escalating unrest, additional police officials were deployed. The DGP has urged the public to ignore any messages or rumours that could further disrupt communal harmony.
In Nashik, the Bhadrakali area witnessed heightened tensions during the Sakal Hindu march. The situation deteriorated as two groups clashed, leading to extensive stone-pelting. In response to the escalating violence, police intervened with a lathi charge and deployed tear gas to disperse the crowds. The confrontation between the groups and the subsequent police action significantly heightened tensions in the area. Authorities are working to restore law and order situation in the area.
Several Hindu organisations had called for a bandh in Nashik against the atrocities on Hindus in Bangladesh. Although the bandh was intended to close businesses, some shops remained open, prompting the organisations to demand their closure. This demand resulted in a heated argument that escalated into a physical altercation and eventually stone-pelting, intensifying the situation in the city.
Several individuals injured in the stone pelting have been hospitalised. Additionally, police are investigating the incidents surrounding the clashes and the resultant violence. The police have also deployed a large force in the area.
(Manas Dasgupta)
