By News Desk
Ranchi, Jharkhand: Communal clashes during a Holi procession in Jharkhand’s Giridih area on Friday resulted in several vehicles being torched, prompting a swift response from local authorities. The incident, which unfolded near Ghodthambha Chowk, has ignited political tensions, with the BJP alleging the involvement of the ruling Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) government.
The disturbance began when a Holi procession, passing through a specific street, triggered an altercation between two communities.The ensuing chaos lasted for approximately an hour, necessitating the intervention of district headquarters officials to disperse the crowd.
Dr. Bimal, the Superintendent of Police (SP), confirmed that while no major injuries were reported, several vehicles were set ablaze. “An incident of clash between two communities has come to light in Ghorthamba OP constituency during Holi celebrations. We are in the process of identifying the people involved. Strict action will be taken against them. The situation is currently under control,” he stated.
Deputy Development Commissioner Smita Kumari echoed the SP’s assurances, attributing the disruption to “anti-social elements” attempting to disturb law and order. “As per the information we have received, some anti-social elements set a few vehicles on fire. The investigation is being done to determine the cause of the incident,” she said. Security personnel have been deployed to maintain order as investigations continue.
The incident has sparked heated political exchanges, with BJP MP Deepak Prakash accusing the JMM government of oppressing the Hindu community. “It is an unfortunate incident and we condemn it. Hemant Soren government is oppressing the Hindu community… Every time Hindu festivals are attacked, Hemant Soren’s people are behind it,” Prakash alleged. He further claimed that the JMM engages in “appeasement politics” by registering FIRs against BJP workers. “I want to warn the government to stop this. Otherwise, BJP workers will not delay in struggling against the state government,” Prakash told media.
The authorities have assured that the situation is now under control and that an investigation is underway to identify and apprehend those responsible for the violence. The incident has raised concerns about communal tensions in the region and the political ramifications that may follow.
This story was originally published in english.mathrubhumi.com.
