Bahraich Chaos: Religious Site Attacked, Arson Attempts Amid Heavy Police Presence as Durga Procession Violence Spirals
BAHRAICH, India — Despite a heavy police presence, violence continued in Bahraich late into Monday night as rioters vandalized a religious site and attempted arson in a village. The unrest follows the violent clashes that erupted during a Durga idol immersion procession on Sunday, which have yet to subside.
The rioters targeted a religious site in Nakwa village, trying to set it on fire, but fled when police forces arrived at the scene. The situation remains tense in the district, with police maintaining a heavy presence to prevent further unrest. Despite the tension, law enforcement has successfully restored some order in the area.
Continued Violence and Arson Attempts
On Monday night, the rioters took advantage of the chaos and attempted to burn a religious site in Nakwa village. "A group of about 10 to 15 people came and tried to start a fire," said the village head. The police and PAC (Provincial Armed Constabulary) arrived on the scene swiftly, but the vandals escaped upon seeing the officers.
Local officials confirmed that more than 50 police officers have been deployed in the area to maintain law and order. BDO Hemant Yadav also reported that the vandals attempted to destroy a religious structure. "They broke a mazaar (shrine) and tried to set it ablaze," Yadav said. Fortunately, the police were able to contain the situation before further damage was done.
Also read : Bahraich Violence: 22-Year-Old Man Killed in Communal Clash Over Durga Procession, Several Injured
Violent Clashes After Durga Procession
The violence originally broke out on Sunday evening around 6 p.m. during a Durga idol immersion procession. Clashes between two communities quickly escalated into stone-pelting and gunfire, resulting in the death of 22-year-old Ram Gopal Mishra. His death further inflamed tensions, and widespread rioting and arson followed throughout the district.
Thousands took to the streets with sticks and rods, vandalizing shops, homes, and even hospitals. One hospital was set on fire, with medical equipment destroyed. A nearby medical store and a motorcycle showroom were also burned, leaving brand-new bikes engulfed in flames.
Police Struggle to Maintain Control
Police efforts to control the situation have been met with mixed success. On Sunday and into Monday, the violence continued as rioters destroyed property and set fires across Bahraich. Following the destruction of the hospital, local authorities declared a heavy police deployment in affected areas, but the violence continued into the night.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Responds
In response to the escalating violence, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath personally intervened, dispatching Additional Director General (ADG) of Law and Order Amitabh Yash to Bahraich. Upon arrival, ADG Yash took charge of controlling the crowds. When faced with an angry mob at the Mahsi's Rampurva checkpoint, he drew his pistol and led efforts to disperse the rioters.
The family of Ram Gopal Mishra, the young man killed in the clashes, finally agreed to perform his last rites after speaking directly with Chief Minister Adityanath, who assured them of justice. The family had earlier demanded strict action, including an encounter with those responsible for the violence and bulldozing their homes.
Investigation and Arrests
Authorities are currently investigating the incident, with several arrests made in connection with the riots. The situation remains tense, but police forces are working to restore order and prevent further violence.
