Why Was the Internet Suspended and Schools Closed in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Internet suspended in Goluwala due to violence.
- Heavy police deployment in the area.
- Schools closed for safety.
- Long-standing management disputes at the gurudwara.
- Public urged to remain calm and avoid rumors.
Jaipur, Oct 4 (NationPress) Internet services have been halted in Goluwala town, located in Rajasthan's Hanumangarh district, due to violent confrontations that erupted at Gurudwara Mehtabgarh, as reported by officials on Saturday.
The clashes occurred on Friday.
In response, a significant number of police personnel have been deployed to the area as the administration implements strict measures to uphold law and order.
Currently, only five individuals, including a Pathi and a member of the village council, are permitted to enter the premises.
The internet shutdown has been in effect since Friday, and schools have remained closed for a second consecutive day on Saturday as a precautionary step.
This unrest is linked to a longstanding conflict regarding the establishment of a new management committee for the gurudwara.
Tensions flared when over 50 individuals stormed the site around 3:15 a.m. on October 3, leading to violent skirmishes.
Eight individuals, including children, sustained injuries during the incident.
As of now, police have arrested 19 suspects, with charges filed against 17 identifiable individuals and several unnamed suspects for offenses such as assault, robbery, and obstruction of governmental processes.
To avert additional disturbances, personnel from 15 police stations, alongside the Rajasthan Armed Constabulary, have been dispatched to the region.
The injured are reported to be in stable condition, and police officials are working in tandem with medical teams.
On Friday evening, authorities evacuated the gurudwara and placed it under official supervision.
Hari Singh, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Pilibanga, appointed the Goluwala police station officer as the official receiver of Gurudwara Mehtabgarh.
No group will have authority over the religious site until further notice, and all religious activities will proceed under police oversight.
Janesh Tanwar, the Assistant Superintendent of Police in Hanumangarh, stated, "The situation is sensitive but is completely under control."
He emphasized that legal actions regarding the gurudwara's administration will be conducted in line with established regulations.
He also urged local residents to remain calm, avoid spreading rumors, and assist in efforts to restore peace in the area.