Idols Vandalised at Shiva Temple in Jaipur

Synopsis
On April 12, disturbing reports emerged from Jaipur regarding the vandalism of idols at a Shiva temple in Lal Kothi. The incident has ignited local outrage and demands for swift police action amidst growing concerns over the safety of religious sites.
Key Takeaways
- Idols vandalised at a Shiva temple in Jaipur.
- Incident occurred overnight; damage discovered during morning prayers.
- Local residents protested, demanding police intervention.
- Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage for leads.
- This is the second such incident in a month.
Jaipur, April 12 (NationPress) In a troubling incident, idols within a Shiva temple situated in the Lal Kothi area of Jaipur were discovered vandalised, igniting tension and anger among local residents on Saturday.
The temple, located near Sabzi Mandi on Sahakar Marg, became the epicenter of unrest after devotees stumbled upon the damaged idols and alerted the authorities.
Initial investigations suggest that an unidentified individual reportedly gained access to the temple grounds during the night on Friday and vandalised three to four idols of the Shiva family, including the idol of Nandi.
Although the Nandi idol remains at its location, it too was found to be broken.
Witnesses recounted that the temple was intact until late Friday night, with the damage only being noticed during early morning prayers on Saturday.
As news of the vandalism spread, outrage surged among the local population.
Devotees and shopkeepers congregated at the temple to voice their protests, demanding immediate police intervention.
In an act of dissent, nearby shops were closed, and the temple area witnessed a surge of individuals expressing their fury and calling for the swift apprehension of the perpetrators.
Malviya Nagar Assistant Commissioner of Police, Aditya Punia, confirmed that the act was committed by an unknown individual under the cover of night.
"We are currently reviewing CCTV footage from nearby cameras to identify the suspect. Action will be taken promptly. Security at the temple has been heightened, and we encourage the community to maintain peace," he stated.
This marks the second such incident in Jaipur within a month.
Previously, idols were similarly vandalised at the Tejaji Temple in the Sanganer area.
The recurring targeting of places of worship has raised alarms about law and order and highlighted concerns over administrative oversight.
Local residents and community leaders have denounced these incidents, cautioning that such attacks on religious sites will not be tolerated.
They have called upon authorities to take decisive action to ensure the safety of religious sites throughout the city.