Violence Erupts in Jharkhand During Holi Celebrations; Shops and Vehicles Set Ablaze
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Synopsis
A violent clash erupted during a Holi procession in Giridih, Jharkhand, resulting in injuries and significant property damage. Multiple shops and vehicles were set on fire as tensions escalated between two groups. Law enforcement intervened to restore order, and an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the unrest.
Key Takeaways
- Several injuries reported during Holi celebrations.
- Violent altercation led to arson and property damage.
- Police efforts restored order after intense clashes.
- Investigation launched to identify responsible parties.
- Security heightened to prevent further incidents.
Giridih, March 15 (NationPress) Several individuals sustained injuries, and numerous shops and vehicles were incinerated following a violent altercation between two factions during a Holi procession in Jharkhand's Giridih district.
The chaos, which escalated into stone-pelting and arson, occurred on Friday in Ghodthamba.
The turmoil began when a faction of local residents protested against the Holi procession traversing their neighborhood, resulting in a heated dispute that rapidly devolved into violence.
Both parties engaged in furious stone-throwing, triggering a swift response from law enforcement.
As conditions deteriorated, Superintendent of Police (SP) Bimal Kumar, Deputy Development Commissioner (DDC) Smita Kumari, Khorimahua SDPO Rajendra Prasad, along with personnel from several police stations, rushed to the location in an effort to restore peace.
Reports indicate that the Holi procession was proceeding as per custom when it reached Ghodthamba Chowk. Tensions escalated as it approached mosque street, igniting a dispute that swiftly became violent.
The police deployed at the scene attempted to intervene, but the crowd became unmanageable. Within moments, the situation worsened as miscreants engaged in arson.
Eyewitnesses noted that the confrontation persisted for approximately an hour before police reinforcements succeeded in dispersing the rioters.
SP Bimal Kumar confirmed the event, stating, "A clash between two communities occurred in the Ghodthamba OP constituency during Holi festivities. We are working to identify those responsible, and strict measures will be enforced. The situation is now under control, and no significant injuries have been reported."
He also recognized that multiple vehicles were set ablaze but assured that the flames were extinguished promptly.
DDC Smita Kumari highlighted that law and order had been reinstated, attributing the disturbances to anti-social elements attempting to disrupt tranquility.
"During Holi festivities, some miscreants attempted to incite chaos, but swift police action has restored calm," she stated.
Authorities have initiated an investigation to uncover the underlying cause of the clash and identify the culprits. Security measures have been intensified in the vicinity to avert any further escalation.
