Bahraich Violence: What Led To Deadly Communal Riots In This Sleepy UP Town?

One of the main accused in the Bahraich communal violence, Salman, was shot dead today by Uttar Pradesh Police while trying to flee the country via Nepal border. Salman is accused of firing shots at 22-year-old Ram Gopal Mishra that claimed his life.

The communal clash broke during the Durga idol immersion procession. Groups of people, armed with sticks and iron rods, were seen roaming the streets. The protestors had set shops, vehicles, and even a hospital ablaze.

The violence, which erupted on Sunday, was sparked by a dispute over loud music being played during the Durga idol immersion procession as it passed through the area.

The disagreement resulted in violent clashes between two communities in the Mahsi area, during which a young man tragically lost his life. Around six others were injured due to stone-throwing and gunfire.

The victim, Ram Gopal Mishra from Rehua Mansoor village, was participating in the procession when he sustained a gunshot wound. Despite being rushed to hospital, he sadly succumbed to his injuries.

The altercation took place as the procession passed through a Muslim-majority area. The argument escalated into stone-throwing and gunfire, which ultimately claimed Mishra's life and heightened communal tensions in the region.

Bahraich Superintendent of Police (SP) Vrinda Shukla stated that a case has been registered against an individual identified as Salman, from whose residence, which doubles as a shop, shots were fired.

Police detained around 30 individuals in connection with the unrest and conducted a flag march to restore order.

Officials also noted that other processions were halted at various locations after some miscreants attempted to incite further disturbances.

Mishra's family, along with hundreds of local residents, had took to the streets with his body, demanding justice.

Media reports indicate that this is the first instance of communal violence during Yogi Adityanath's second term as Chief Minister.

Adityanath condemned the violence and instructed authorities to liaise with religious organisations to ensure the timely completion of idol immersions. He also ordered the police to deploy personnel at immersion sites.