Prohibitory orders continued to remain in force in Madhya Pradesh’s Barwani district headquarters where it was imposed following a clash between two groups during a religious procession on Monday night, police said.
“The situation is under control. So far, 150 people, including 30 persons, have been booked for rioting, arson and attempt to murder,” said Deputy Inspector General of Police (Nimar Range) DK Arya. Additional police forces have been deployed in the area. No untoward incident took place during the period. “No arrests have been made so far. A clash occurred between two groups over exploding of crackers during the procession last night,” said Superintendent of Police Tilak Singh.
Six vehicles, including two-wheelers of police officials, were set afire and an auto-rickshaw damaged in the ensuing violence. Mild force was used, teargas shells lobbed and gunshots fired in air to control the mob. Singh received minor injuries in head. Besides, a constable, an assistant sub-inspector (ASI) and six other people were injured. ASI S Mohta was referred to Indore for treatment.
The markets remained closed on Tuesday. A meeting of the peace committee was convened at the police control room. This is the fourth occasion in the past fortnight when two groups have clashed with each other.