In the Indian state of Rajasthan, Hindutva fanatics set fire to Muslims’ homes and other possessions.
Anti-Muslim violence erupted after Hindu groups staged a bike rally through a Muslim neighborhood in Karauli city in the name of celebrating the Hindu New Year and raised provocative slogans. Throughout the procession, Hindutva songs inciting violence against Muslims were also played on speakers.
The rally’s participants pelted stones at Muslim homes and set fire to their businesses and vehicles as they passed through a Muslim-dominated area.
The police report that up to 40 people have been injured in the clashes, prompting authorities to impose a curfew, suspend internet access, and deploy 600 police officers.
The violence injured over three dozen people and detained 30, according to Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Hawa Singh Ghumariya, who added that the situation is under control.
When the rally commemorating Nav Samvatsar passed through a Muslim-dominated area, some onlookers pelted it with stones. The violence erupted, and several businesses and a motorcycle were set on fire. Several others were damaged, according to the police.
Additionally, mobile internet has been suspended in Karauli, which is located 170 kilometers from the state capital Jaipur.
Governor Kalraj Mishra and Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot met with Director General of Police (DGP) ML Lather and pleaded with the public to keep the peace.
According to officials, 600 police officers have been deployed, including 50 officers in the ranks of deputy superintendent of police and inspector, and three IPS officers have been dispatched from Jaipur to Karauli.
According to Karauli collector Rajendra Singh Shekhawat, the entire city has been placed under curfew.
