Khandwa: Tensions escalated in Khandwa district on Monday evening as the annual Kanwar Yatra procession entered the region, sparking clashes between two groups.
The situation turned volatile when allegations arose that the yatris had raised provocative slogans upon their arrival, leading to chaos in a Muslim-dominated area.
The clashes took a violent turn as both groups resorted to pelting stones at each other. Law enforcement authorities swiftly intervened, working to regain control and restore order in the area.
Disturbing videos of the incident circulated on various social media. In one particularly alarming clip, a participant of the yatra is heard making menacing remarks, declaring that "Jihadis will be cut into pieces today."
Other videos displayed individuals dressed in saffron attire vandalizing shopfronts and houses using sticks, while another video captured yatris hurling stones.
As the chaos unfolded, a mob scattered in disarray, met by police officers clad in protective gear who responded with baton charges. Numerous demonstrators sustained injuries during the clashes, and vehicles were reportedly damaged.
Khandwa's Collector, Anup Kumar Singh, assured that those responsible for the disturbances would be identified and subjected to stringent legal action. State Home Minister Narottam Mishra revealed that law enforcement was reviewing CCTV footage to identify and apprehend the culprits behind the clashes.
"The situation is now completely under control," Mishra stated, emphasizing that district police have been directed to maintain vigilance throughout the festival season to pre-empt any further untoward incidents.
Khandwa's Kotwali police have registered a case under several sections of the Indian Penal Code, including mischief to cause damage, rioting, and rioting with a deadly weapon.