Maharashtra: Social media post triggers communal violence in Kolhapur, Muslim mob attacks Hindus over WhatsApp message, cops injured in stone pelting

In Kolhapur, communal violence has been triggered by a social media post.
Image via esakal.com

A clash erupted between members of two communities on the evening of 12th March (Thursday) in the Kagal taluka of Kolhapur district, Maharashtra, over a post on social media. Stone pelting took place in the incident, resulting in the injury of 4 individuals, reported Esakal.

As per reports, a Hindu youth reportedly shared a shloka of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj in a WhatsApp group. Enraged at this, a Muslim mob initiated a lethal attack on him. When they were confronted by the police, they began to hurl stones at the police and others.

Several two-wheelers and four-wheelers sustained damage during the incident. The situation is now under control, but the atmosphere continues to be tense. A large police force has been deployed.

According to authorities, a post was disseminated online, which led to a face-off between young men from the two sides in the social media group. The conflict had been settled by locals via discussion. Nevertheless, members of one community assaulted several individuals from the other side.

The news of the incident spread, and a massive crowd assembled at the location. The locals were trying to resolve the issue amicably. The police were also on the scene. However, stones and bricks started flying before anyone could comprehend what was unfolding. The cops promptly called for additional support, separated the opposing sides and managed to restore order, recognising the seriousness of the circumstances.

Inspectors from the Kagal, Karvir and Gandhinagar police stations were dispatched along with their teams to manage the situation effectively under the supervision of Superintendent of Police Yogesh Kumar Gupta.

Meanwhile, information about the event reached the taluka and the surrounding area via social media. Afterwards, young people in Kagal gathered and vehemently denounced the incident, calling for stringent measures against the accused. A throng assembled in front of the Kagal police station until late at night. The procedure for filing complaints after the medical assessment of the victims injured during the stone-throwing and physical altercations persisted into the late hours of the night.

Local officials earlier tried to reach an agreement, but to no avail. Multiple persons, including cops, mediators and a journalist recieved wounds during the assault. More security forces were summoned from the district headquarters to uphold law and order and to avert any unfortunate instance. Furthermore, a Rapid Action Force unit consisting of over 150 personnel was also dispatched.

The majority of the stores were ordered to close by the police, except for pharmacies. Likewise, people were prevented from forming crowds on the streets. Women and children remained indoors. During this period, the power supply experienced interruptions lasting around one hour. It was reinstated late at night.

The authorities cautioned all residents of Kolhapur district against circulating any posts, images or messages on social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and Twitter that are offensive, damaging to religious feelings or likely to incite social unrest. They warned, “Noncompliance will lead to legal proceedings being initiated against the violators under the Information Technology Act. Residents are encouraged not to believe in rumours. The safety and security of our citizens is our foremost priority.”

Written by OpIndia Staff
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