A violent clash erupted in Rajasthan’s Jodhpur, leading to the detention of 51 individuals by the police. The incident, which occurred in the Soorsagar area, involved clashes between two religious groups and resulted in injuries to two police officers.
The clashes were reportedly sparked by a dispute over the installation of two new gates at an Eidgah near Rajaram Circle. Jodhpur Police Commissioner Rajendra Singh stated that tensions had been escalating over the past few days regarding the construction of these gates, leading to a confrontation on Friday night.
According to Singh, a group of 10 to 15 locals initiated the violence by pelting stones at another group near the Eidgah. The situation worsened as the mob set a local shop on fire and vandalized two cars, including a police van.
The dispute centered on the installation of gates at the Eidgah’s rear wall, with locals alleging that proper legal procedures were not followed during their construction. The situation escalated when attempts were made to inaugurate the gates, leading to protests and clashes.
Efforts were made by the police and local municipality officials to resolve the matter through negotiations. However, tensions flared up again later in the evening, resulting in stone-pelting and violence in Vyapariyon ka Mohalla.
As a result of the clashes, Inspector Nitin Dave and Constable Shaitan Singh were injured, with Dave sustaining a serious neck injury. Both officers received medical treatment and were discharged subsequently.
The violence also led to the vandalism of local shops, houses, and vehicles, including a police van and a tractor. The police had to use mild force, including lathi-charges and tear gas, to disperse the agitated mob and restore order.
In response to the incident, Section 144 was imposed in parts of Soorsagar, and additional police forces were deployed to maintain peace. An investigation is underway, with a case registered against unidentified persons under various sections of the Indian Penal Code related to rioting, unlawful assembly, and causing harm to public workers.
This incident marks a concerning trend of communal clashes in the area, with previous instances reported in 2019 and 2022. Authorities are committed to investigating the matter thoroughly and taking action against those responsible for disrupting peace in Jodhpur city.
Political figures, including Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and State Minister Jogaram Patel, have expressed concern over the incident and assured that necessary actions will be taken against the perpetrators to ensure peace and harmony in the region.
Sources By Agencies
