Tensions Escalate in Jaipur After Altercation Near Jama Masjid, MLA Accused
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Synopsis
Tensions escalated in Jaipur following a dispute over controversial posters placed by MLA Balmukundacharya outside the Jama Masjid. The incident led to large gatherings and police intervention to maintain order, with accusations of inciting religious sentiments made against the MLA.
Key Takeaways
- Tensions high outside Jama Masjid in Jaipur.
- MLA Balmukundacharya accused of inciting unrest.
- Posters deemed disrespectful to religious sentiments.
- Police deployed to manage the situation effectively.
- FIR registered against the MLA by the Jama Masjid Committee.
Jaipur, April 26 (NationPress) Tensions remain high outside the iconic Jama Masjid in Johari Bazaar, Jaipur, following a conflict stemming from the posting of controversial posters.
The incident, which unfolded late on Friday night, led to a significant assembly at Badi Chaupad, where individuals from a specific group voiced their discontent through slogans.
The quick response from the Jaipur Commissionerate Police was instrumental in calming the escalating situation.
This disturbance coincided with widespread condemnation of a recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir.
As per officials, the unrest began when Hawamahal MLA Balmukundacharya allegedly affixed posters in the vicinity of the Jama Masjid and nearby areas, including the footpath adjacent to Badi Chaupad, Ramganj market, and public restrooms.
Witnesses reported that MLA Balmukundacharya appeared near the Jama Masjid around 8:30 p.m. with supporters, displaying anti-Pakistan posters.
Local residents accused him of showing a lack of respect towards the mosque and the posters. After he placed the posters, a large crowd gathered, demanding his arrest.
In response, police deployed a substantial force to manage the rising tensions.
DCP Rashi Dogra and other senior law enforcement officials arrived at the site. As a precaution, additional police units were summoned to ensure order.
The Jama Masjid Committee filed an FIR against MLA Balmukundacharya at the Manakchowk police station, alleging that he incited religious sentiments.
As news of the FIR spread, the crowd gradually began to disperse.
Meanwhile, Congress MLAs Rafiq Khan and Amin Kagzi also arrived at the Police Commissionerate.
Appeals were made from the mosque encouraging individuals to return home, assuring them of the FIR's registration. However, many insisted on the immediate arrest of Balmukundacharya, threatening to stage their afternoon prayers at the site if no action was taken by Saturday.
The controversial posters reportedly bore the message, "Who says terrorism does not have a religion?" and depicted a bearded man.
Those assembled claimed that these posters were intentionally aimed at hurting religious sentiments.
When reached for comment, MLA Balmukundacharya asserted that the posters merely expressed views against Pakistan and terrorism.
He maintained that no religious sentiments were harmed and that the posters were placed in various locations, including near the Badi Chaupad Ganesh Temple and Sulabh toilets.
"Those who oppose Pakistan could express their sentiments by stepping on the stickers with their footwear, while those who disagree were welcome to take them down," he stated.
Initial reports indicate that the first gathering began around 10 p.m., with one group protesting and placing posters near Badi Chaupad. This was soon countered by another gathering, resulting in a conflict between the two factions.
The police acted quickly, deploying additional forces to control the situation.
Police Commissioner Biju George Joseph and Additional Police Commissioner Rameshwar Singh were present among senior officials at the site to manage the unfolding events.
MLA Rafiq Khan remarked that the protest represented the sentiments of the entire community against terrorism, not just one group, adding that the FIR has been filed.
