43 held for sectarian clashes in Old City

Forty-three people were arrested in connection with the incidents of firing,stone-pelting and arson in the old city area during a clash between two sects of a community that started Wednesday morning. As many as 27 FIRs had been lodged. Police claimed the situation remained normal in the area Saturday but a heavy force of police and Rapid Action Force continued to be deployed in the area.Lucknow police spokesperson Alok Pathak said all 43 have been sent in judicial remand.Bazarkhala circle officer Raj Kumar said as many as 26 persons were arrested in his circle while they were found indulging in firing,stone-pelting and arson Friday and they have been sent to jail.

He said police have also identified as many as 90 people involved in violence during the clash with the help of video footage. They will also be arrested,he said. Chowk Circle Officer Sarvesh Mishra,too,said the police were trying to identify the miscreants.