Five more arrested for Bahraich communal clashes, 70 held so far

Bahraich Superintendent of Police (SP) Vrinda Shukla, who confirmed the arrest of five persons for their alleged involvement in the violence, said raids were being conducted to apprehend the remaining suspects.

The violence erupted on October 13 when some people demanded that the music be stopped as a Durga idol immersion procession passed near their houses and a mosque in the Maharajganj area of Mahasi tehsil. In the ensuing clash, one Ram Gopal Mishra, 20, was killed, and several others were injured. The situation escalated the next day, with protesters demanding strict action against those responsible for Mishra’s killing. The unrest spread to neighboring areas, prompting the police to use force to restore order.

In total, 14 FIRs have been registered in connection with the violence.

The district police have set up a special control room to monitor and investigate the case and are requesting the public, including mediapersons, to provide videos or photographs related to the incident. These visuals are being used to identify the accused.

SP Vrinda Shukla said action against the accused was being taken solely based on evidence.

On Sunday, 23 residents of Maharajganj, who received demolition notices from the Public Works Department (PWD), were busy moving their belongings to safer locations. In the notices, they have been directed to provide within three days the documentation of having permission for the constructions, or remove them, failing which they will be demolished. The cost of the demolition of the structures, if done by the authorities, will be recovered from the property owners, the order added.

The residents started moving their belongings in mini-trucks and three-wheelers on Saturday and were seen dismantling tin shades outside their shops and houses.

Some locals also reportedly demolished parts of their homes and shops that were illegally constructed.

Among those served with the notices is Abdul Hameed, a 62-year-old jeweller who, along with his three sons and a neighbour, was arrested on Thursday in connection with the death of Ram Gopal Mishra.