Communal tensions erupted in several parts of Bihar following Saraswati idol immersion ceremonies, resulting in clashes that left over 40 people injured, authorities confirmed on Saturday. The violence prompted the arrest of approximately 50 suspects in Darbhanga alone, where clashes between communities escalated, leading to a significant law enforcement response.
In Darbhanga, clashes ensued in Bahera market on Friday, prompting the police to register separate FIRs against 170 named individuals and 400 unidentified persons across multiple police stations. Senior Superintendent of Police Jagunath Jala Reddy disclosed that 53 named suspects have been apprehended, with efforts underway to apprehend the remaining perpetrators.
Darbhanga District Magistrate Rajeev Raushan reported that officials managed to control the situation in the Bahera area after swiftly intervening in response to the clashes during the idol immersion.
Similar incidents were reported in Bhagalpur, Saharsa, Sitamarhi, Sheikhpura, Siwan, and Jamui. In Bhagalpur, clashes erupted during a procession for Saraswati idol immersion in the Lodipur area, resulting in injuries to about 15 individuals amid alleged stone-pelting and gunfire. Bhagalpur City Superintendent of Police Raj led a police contingent to restore order.
In Saharsa, clashes in Nariyar Lataha Tola locality left four injured, while six were injured in Sheikhpura, where miscreants attempted to loot a mobile phone outlet. Violence also erupted in Sitamarhi, Siwan, and Jamui, with instances of stone pelting and gunfire reported.
The escalation of violence prompted authorities to suspend internet services in Darbhanga district for 48 hours to curb the spread of rumors and misinformation fueling communal tensions. The decision, aimed at preventing the dissemination of objectionable content through social media platforms, YouTube channels, and messaging services, will be reevaluated on Monday.
Additional Chief Secretary to the government, Dr. S Siddharth, highlighted concerns over the potential misuse of internet platforms to incite communal discord and disrupt public peace, underscoring the necessity of the temporary suspension.
The incidents underscore the delicate communal landscape in Bihar, necessitating swift and decisive measures from authorities to quell unrest and maintain harmony during religious observances. As investigations continue and efforts to restore calm persist, the state remains vigilant against any attempts to exploit religious sentiments for divisive purposes.
Sources By Agencies
