Tension in Varanasi after Ramlila procession violence

Varanasi, Oct 20 (UNI) Police and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel have been deployed in strength in the Khojwan area here, following the violence that erupted during a Ramlila procession.

The incident occurred late last night in the sensitive Khojwan locality under Bhelupur police station, when a Ramlila procession was passing through the area. As the procession reached a concrete platform, there was a minor spat between participants of the procession and members of another community.

The minor spat soon took an ugly turn with a group of miscreants pelting stones on the procession resulting in minor injuries to two persons.

Getting to know about the incident, police and PAC personnel assisted by RAF were rushed to the spot. Police used mild force to disperse the mob indulging in stone pelting and brought the situation under control.

Circle Officer (Bhelupur) O P Pandey and Station Officer (Bhelupur) A K Ojha camped in the communally sensitive area through out the night.

Mr Ojha told UNI that situation was tense but well under control.

Five persons, who were arrested in connection with the violence were released on bail this afternoon, he added.

UNI