Eight Injured in Clash Between Rival Groups During Sarhul Festivities Near Ranchi
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Synopsis
A clash during Sarhul festivities in Hethbalu village near Ranchi resulted in injuries to eight individuals. The altercation was triggered by disputes over flags damaging electric poles. Police intervened to restore order, while a BJP MP criticized the government for failing to protect cultural traditions.
Key Takeaways
- Eight people injured in a clash during Sarhul celebrations.
- Conflict arose from procession flags damaging electric poles.
- Police were deployed to maintain order in Hethbalu.
- Criticism directed at the state government for cultural neglect.
- Thousands participated in Sarhul festivities across various locations.
Ranchi, April 2 (NationPress) Tensions flared in Hethbalu village, located under the Pithoria police jurisdiction in Ranchi, following a confrontation between two factions during a Sarhul procession on Tuesday night, as reported by officials on Wednesday.
At least eight individuals from both groups, including a tribal Pahan (priest), suffered injuries during the altercation.
Sources indicate that the conflict erupted when flags from the Sarhul procession interfered with electric poles set up for a different community's festival. The situation swiftly deteriorated, resulting in stone-pelting and further clashes.
Upon being alerted, police and administrative officials, including DSP Amar Kumar Pandey, Station House Officer Abhay Kumar, and Kanke Circle Officer Jai Kumar Ram, promptly arrived at the scene to restore order.
A significant police presence has been established in the village to avert any additional disturbances.
All injured parties were transported to the hospital for necessary medical treatment.
Meanwhile, BJP Rajya Sabha MP Deepak Prakash criticized the state government on social media regarding the incident. He accused the Hemant Soren-led administration of neglecting to safeguard Jharkhand’s cultural heritage and called for stringent measures against those accountable.
He stated, “Yet again, troublemakers from a specific community, shielded by the Hemant Soren government, seized the chance to undermine the culture and traditions of Jharkhand. The assault on the people of Jharkhand celebrating Sarhul by a specific community in Pithoria, Ranchi, is regrettable. The government must take immediate actions against the rioters and the officials involved.”
During the Sarhul festivities, parades were conducted in numerous towns and villages, including the state capital, Ranchi, on Tuesday.
Thousands of participants, including men, women, and children, engaged in the celebrations, dancing and singing in the streets, accompanied by flags and traditional instruments such as drums—emblems of the Sarna faith.
