A 22-year-old man was fatally shot during a communal clash in Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh, on Sunday while a procession for the immersion of a Durga idol was taking place. The violence erupted over music being played during the event, resulting in injuries to several others from stone pelting and gunfire.
The victim, Ram Gopal Mishra, was walking with the procession in Mahrajganj Bazar, Mansoor village, when he was shot. He was rushed to a hospital but succumbed to his injuries, according to family members. Following his death, communal tensions surged, leading to the cancellation of similar processions in nearby areas.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath condemned the violence, asserting that those responsible would face consequences. He instructed local authorities to ensure the continuation of idol immersions while coordinating with religious groups. Additional police forces were dispatched to maintain order.
In the wake of the incident, two police officials were suspended for negligence, and the Superintendent of Police announced actions against involved personnel. One death has been confirmed amidst reports of sporadic arson in surrounding districts like Gonda and Balrampur. Senior officials, including the ADG and DIG, were sent to the scene to manage the unrest.
Local villagers reacted to Mishra’s death with anger, vandalizing vehicles and setting them ablaze in Maharajganj market. A significant police presence, including the Provincial Armed Constabulary, has been deployed to restore order, with senior officers closely monitoring the situation.
