Photo: PTI
Tensions erupted late Tuesday night between two communities in the Jhanda Chowk area of Hazaribagh over the songs being played during a procession for the Ram Navami festival, according to police.
The clash occurred when the procession reached Jama Masjid, located within the Sadar police station area, and a dispute over the music played reportedly led to stone pelting and vandalism from both sides.
No arrests or detentions have been made in connection with the incident, according to the Indian Express.
As Ram Navami approaches on April 6, hundreds of Akhadas have begun their weekly “Mangala procession” every Tuesday, starting from Holi and continuing until the Ram Navami celebrations.
In a statement to The Indian Express, Hazaribagh's Deputy Commissioner, Nancy Sahay, explained that the conflict began over an objectionable song played during the procession, which led to minor stone pelting from both groups.
She reassured that additional forces had been deployed and the situation was now under control.
Speaking to the media, Hazaribagh's Superintendent of Police, Arvind Singh, confirmed that the situation was stable but emphasized that the police would take strict action if any disturbances occurred during the festival.
He urged all religious communities to maintain peace, especially with Ramzan, Ram Navami, and the Sarhul festival for the Adivasis all happening close together.