New Delhi: Tensions flared in Telanganas Asifabad district on Wednesday following protests over an attempted rape on a tribal woman. In Jainoor town, a crowd set shops and homes ablaze, filling the air with thick smoke. Heavy police forces were swiftly deployed, and a curfew was imposed to restore order, as per reports.Suspension of internet in the areaTo prevent the spread of misinformation and unrest, prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) were issued. Additionally, internet services in the area were suspended. Officials said the situation was eventually brought under control, with additional forces, including the Rapid Action Force (RAF), deployed for reinforcement.Details of the incidentThe alleged incident occurred on August 31 when a 45-year-old tribal woman in Kumuram Bheem Asifabad district was attacked by an auto-rickshaw driver. The accused reportedly attempted to sexually assault her, and when she resisted, he tried to kill her by hitting her with a stick, leaving her unconscious. She was taken to a local hospital and later moved to Hyderabad for further treatment. After regaining consciousness, the woman reported the assault, leading to the drivers arrest on charges of sexual assault, attempted murder, and violations under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.Jainoor in Asifabad district is witnessing unrest after an auto driver allegedly raped a tribal woman.Under Congress rule, the brutal assault on a tribal woman and the violence that followed highlight the collapse of law and order.Congress has repeatedly failed to protect… pic.twitter.com/8jiRbRsksA— Tulla Veerender Goud (@TVG_BJP) September 4, 2024Protest amid escelation of voilenceFollowing the attack, tribal organizations called for a bandh, which saw significant participation. However, the protests escalated into violence due to communal tensions, as the accused belonged to a different community. Youth from the tribal community retaliated by setting shops and religious sites on fire, resulting in widespread property damage and clashes. Police intervened and engaged with community elders to restore peace, while investigations into the violence are ongoing.Action taken by authoritiesAuthorities have urged both communities to remain calm, emphasizing that the accused has been arrested and is in judicial custody. Police are conducting further investigations to bring those involved in the arson and violence to justice.Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Bandi Sanjay Kumar, expressed his concern on X, saying, “Deeply disturbed by the brutal assault on tribal woman... Contacted Telangana DGP and sought swift and unbiased action against the perpetrators... The safety of our women and peace in our communities is paramount.
