In the Maharajganj area of Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh, a Durga Puja immersion procession faced unexpected chaos on Sunday. As the procession passed a Muslim community's home, stones were hurled, leading to a frightening outbreak of gunfire. Tragically, this violent turn left two participants critically injured, one of whom unfortunately passed away in the hospital during treatment. The aftermath saw angry mobs setting vehicles and homes ablaze, halting the idol immersion.
The incident took place in Rehua Mansoor village within the Hardi police station's jurisdiction. What began as a serene evening for the immersion of Goddess Durga's idol turned catastrophic when the procession, chanting hymns, reached Abdul Hamid's house in Maharajganj market. Unidentified individuals began throwing stones at the idols, and in the midst of the commotion, miscreants fired shots. Among the injured, Ram Gopal Mishra, aged 22, from Rehua Mansoor village, alongside another individual, suffered gunshot wounds.
Those critically injured were immediately referred to the district hospital for urgent care; tragically, one succumbed to his injuries at Bahraich Medical College. Upon receiving the distressing news, individuals heading for immersion retaliated, causing widespread damage and setting fire to vehicles and four homes. Dense police forces, including PAC personnel, have been deployed, effectively turning Maharajganj into a fortified zone.
Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath issued a stern warning on social media platform 'X,' stating, "Those who disrupt the peace in Bahraich's Mahsi will not be spared. Safety for all, but those responsible for this chaos will face severe consequences. Idol immersion will continue uninterrupted. Local administration and police are instructed to ensure seamless immersion by actively coordinating with religious groups."
Source: aajtak
Police Communication with Media Severed
Amidst police chants, an enraged crowd aired their grievances against law enforcement, further escalating tensions. The entire region now resembles a military encampment, underscoring the gravity of the situation. However, police officials, including the district SP, ASP, CO, and SHO, remain reticent, choosing not to disclose any information to the media at this critical time.
