Raipur/Gariaband: Tension prevailed in Dutkaiyan village under Fingeshwar police station in Chhattisgarh's Gariaband district following violent communal clashes between two communities on Sunday evening, leaving several police officers injured.
Heavy police deployment has brought the situation under control, with the village now under strict surveillance.
The violence erupted after three individuals—Arif, Salim, and Imran—recently released on bail in a year-old case of alleged temple idol vandalism, reportedly assaulted 4-6 youths from the village and nearby areas using rods, stones, and other weapons.
Police and local accounts describe the accused as serial offenders who targeted those who had testified against them, leaving victims seriously injured and prompting accusations of ongoing intimidation.
Enraged villagers then surrounded the houses of Arif and his aides, setting multiple homes and vehicles ablaze amid the chaos.
As police moved in to intervene and restore order, they faced stone-pelting and brick-throwing, injuring at least six officers, some of whom required hospital treatment.
Gariaband Superintendent of Police Vedvrat Sirmour confirmed the re-arrest of the three accused, with multiple cases now registered against Arif and others involved.
He noted that villagers pelted stones at police personnel, causing injuries, and additional forces including reinforcements were rushed to prevent further escalation.
By Monday, the village resembled a security camp, with police stationed at every corner to maintain vigilance.
Officials stated the situation is stable but ongoing monitoring continues to prevent recurrence, urging residents to cooperate and avoid rumour-mongering to preserve harmony in the rural area.
(Inputs from IANS)