Dispute between Muslim leaders settled in MP capital

Bhopal, Oct 13 (UNI) A dispute between two key local Muslim leaders -- the shahar qazi and naib qazi -- was settled by discussion on the eve of Eid resulting in the police, administration and the old city area's denizens heaving sighs of relief.

''My discussion with Naib Qazi Amirullah at the Moti Masjid this evening, in the presence of spiritual leaders and other eminent persons, has left no room for rancour. As per the tradition, I will initiate the prayers tomorrow at the Idgah while the naib qazi will read out the 'takreer','' Shahar Qazi Mohammad Abdul Lateef told UNI.

Tension prevailed in the old city after supporters of the two leaders indulged in violence including rioting and damage to property following the dispute.

A town inspector was attacked during last night's disturbances in Talaiyya and Jahangirabad Police Station limits. More than half-a-dozen vehicles were damaged and an ATM machine's glass smashed leading to closure of markets. A case of rioting and attempt to murder was registered against more than half-a-dozen people.

The district administration and police made attempts to mend fences between the two sides, in the leaders' presence. A heavy police force was stationed in the old city.

''Mr Lateef's relatives lodged a complaint against Mr Amirullah at Talaiyya Police Station. The dispute began last evening at a Hilal Committee meeting at Moti Masjid in the presence of both leaders,'' Superintendent of Police A K Singh said today.

After the meeting, the naib qazi allegedly misbehaved with the shahar qazi's son-in-law leading to a face-off between the leaders.

News spread in the old city that the shahar qazi was subjected to misbehaviour at the meeting. Mr Lateef's supporters took to the streets while on the other hand the naib qazi's supporters raised slogans alleging that he was subjected to misbehaviour.

An unidentified person used a stabbing weapon to target T T Nagar Police Station Saleem Khan who sustained a head injury and was admitted to a private hospital.

UNI