Violence erupts at Durga murti visarjan in Bahraich; Leaves one dead, two police officers suspended

Uttar Pradesh: Violence erupted during a Durga idol immersion procession in Bahraich district on October 13, leading to the death of a 22-year-old man who was shot. The unrest began with stone-pelting and escalated into gunfire, sparking widespread arson. Enraged crowds set fire to several homes and vehicles. In response, police forces were deployed to restore order. Superintendent of Police Vrinda Shukla assured the public that efforts are ongoing to ensure the peaceful continuation of the immersion process, stating, "We have deployed sufficient police forces at all locations, and no issues have arisen so far." Videos circulating on social media depict the chaotic scenes.

उत्तर प्रदेश : बहराइच में दुर्गा मूर्ति शोभायात्रा पर पथराव–फायरिंग के बाद अक्रोशित लोगों ने कई मकानों में आग लगाई। वाहन भी जलाए जाने की सूचना। मुस्लिम पक्ष के लोगों पर पथराव–फायरिंग करने का आरोप है। https://t.co/9qMGEsNcbe pic.twitter.com/C646DjSwhG

— Sachin Gupta (@SachinGuptaUP) October 13, 2024

CM Yogi takes immediate action

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath promptly took notice of the incident. He issued a tweet declaring that those responsible for disrupting the peace in Mahsi, Bahraich, will not be spared. He emphasized that while security will be guaranteed for everyone, stringent action will be taken against those who caused the unrest and those whose negligence contributed to the incident. The immersion process will continue as planned, with authorities directed to be present at the scene, engage in dialogue with religious organizations, and ensure timely completion of the idol immersion.