Communal clashes erupted in Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh, during a Durga idol immersion procession, resulting in violence targeting Muslim families. A horrific incident involved four-year-old Shifa, almost thrown into a burning bike by rioters, but thankfully, her father saved her just in time.
Syed Ali and Anwar Ali reported a 200-strong mob stormed their area, burning their shop and house. The violence began when a disagreement over music being blasted from loudspeakers during the procession escalated into stone-pelting, gunfire, and the tragic death of 22-year-old Ram Gopal.
Zafarul-Islam and Asif Mujtaba documented widespread destruction. Authorities bulldozed Muslim-owned houses, issuing notices to many residents. The Supreme Court expressed concerns, stating houses cannot be demolished merely because occupants are accused.
Tension prevails with heavy police deployment. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath denounced the violence, promising that the guilty will not be spared. Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi appealed to the chief minister and the state administration to take immediate action.
This story was originally published in thehindustangazette.com.
