INVC NEWS
Bahraich – In the heart of Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh, the situation has escalated beyond control following violence that erupted during the Durga idol immersion. What started as localized unrest has now spiraled into widespread violence, extending from the city into rural areas. Homes, shops, and hospitals have been set ablaze, and with the internet services suspended, the tension in the region continues to rise.
The unrest began during the immersion of Durga idols, a significant festival in the region, and quickly turned into a deadly conflict. As tensions mount, law enforcement officials are struggling to restore peace, and the damage to public and private property continues to increase. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has taken action, dispatching senior officials to the area, yet the situation remains volatile.
Rioters Set Fire to Multiple Properties
Reports indicate that following the violent protests in Bahraich, several homes and businesses were set on fire. In the early hours of the day, a bike showroom and a hospital were ransacked and torched. Eyewitnesses claim that rioters armed with sticks and stones stormed the buildings, causing panic among locals. Patients in the hospital had to be evacuated as flames engulfed parts of the facility, while the showroom suffered extensive damage, with vehicles being set on fire.
Following these attacks, violence spilled over into rural areas of Bahraich. In Chandpaiya and Kabdiyapurwa villages, reports emerged of homes being burned, with several families losing their homes overnight. The mob mentality fueled by anger over a young man’s death has created an environment of fear and chaos.
Internet Services Suspended
Amidst the growing unrest, internet services in Bahraich have been suspended as part of efforts to control the dissemination of information that could incite further violence. Authorities feared that social media could be used to spread rumors or organize violent groups. The lack of communication has only added to the residents’ sense of isolation and fear as they remain unsure of what might happen next.
With the shutdown in place, local businesses and residents are struggling to communicate. Daily activities have been disrupted, and the suspension of internet services has had a cascading effect on the economy of the region. It is unclear when these services will be restored.
Police Forces Struggle to Regain Control
The Bahraich police, under the leadership of Superintendent of Police Vrinda Shukla, are working tirelessly to disperse crowds and bring the situation under control. According to official reports, the police have resorted to using tear gas and batons in an attempt to manage the escalating violence. Despite these efforts, sporadic clashes between the police and angry mobs have continued.
Shukla has assured the public that every effort is being made to restore order in the city. “We are using all our resources to control the situation. Our forces are on the ground, and we will disperse those creating trouble,” said Shukla in an official statement. However, the sheer scale of the unrest, with violence now reported in several rural areas, has made this a formidable task for law enforcement.
The Tragic Catalyst: A Young Man’s Death Sparks Fury
The violence in Bahraich is believed to have been triggered by the tragic death of a young man during the Durga idol immersion. According to reports, the man was shot, which sparked widespread outrage. The news of the shooting quickly spread, and within hours, protestors took to the streets, demanding justice.
Local political leaders, including MP Awadhesh Prasad from the Samajwadi Party, have expressed their sorrow over the incident. “This is a heartbreaking and painful event. I appeal to all citizens of Bahraich and every section of society to contribute to the restoration of peace,” Prasad said. He also criticized the law enforcement preparedness, suggesting that had there been adequate security measures, this tragedy might have been prevented.
Arrests and Legal Action
As of today, over 30 rioters have been arrested in connection with the violence. Authorities have stated that they are conducting investigations and working to identify those responsible for the widespread destruction. The Chief Minister’s Office has issued a stern warning, promising that those found guilty will face the full force of the law.
In a significant development, Salman, believed to be the main suspect in the shooting incident, has been arrested, alongside several other key individuals involved in the violence. First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered against these individuals, and more arrests are expected as investigations continue. Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya has echoed these sentiments, stating, “Those involved in this conspiracy to disturb peace will not be spared. We will ensure that justice is served.”
Political Leaders Call for Peace
Political leaders from various parties have called for peace and calm. Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi took to social media, urging the public not to take the law into their own hands. In her statement, she expressed her disappointment in the inaction of the administration, calling for swift intervention from the Chief Minister and law enforcement agencies.
In her plea to the people of Bahraich, she stated, “Please do not resort to violence. Let the law take its course. The ongoing violence and reports of administrative inaction are deeply saddening. I appeal to everyone to restore peace.” Her comments came amidst growing calls from various political parties for accountability and swift action to address the root causes of the unrest.
Violence Spreads to Rural Areas
What started as a city-centered conflict has now spread to the surrounding rural regions. Chandpaiya and Kabdiyapurwa villages have become the latest victims of the ongoing violence. In these areas, homes have been torched, and locals are living in fear as tensions escalate.
With riot police and six companies of PAC being dispatched to these regions, the government is stepping up its efforts to regain control. Senior officials, including Home Secretary Sanjeev Gupta and ADG Law and Order Amitabh Yash, have reached Bahraich to take stock of the situation and strategize on bringing back peace. However, the violence continues to spread as more homes and businesses are targeted by angry mobs.
Efforts to Restore Peace
As the state government moves swiftly to contain the situation, all eyes are on Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and his response to the crisis. Adityanath has reiterated that those responsible for disturbing the peace will face strict punishment, and efforts are underway to provide justice for the victims. Security has been ramped up across the region, and the administration is urging the public to remain calm and avoid falling prey to misinformation.
The District Magistrate Monica Rani has confirmed that while the situation remains tense, authorities are working around the clock to bring it under control. “We are doing everything in our power to control the situation and ensure that peace returns to Bahraich,” Rani stated. The local police are also working closely with intelligence agencies to track down any additional perpetrators behind the violence.