Introduction
Tensions have flared in the districts of Mewat, Gurugram, Faridabad, and Rewari in the state of Haryana, India, leading to the imposition of Section 144 which prohibits the assembly of more than four people in an area. The unrest began in the Nuh area of Mewat, following a clash between two groups during a religious procession organized by Hindu organizations. The situation escalated quickly with reports of stone-pelting, vehicles being set on fire, and even the death of two home guards, with over 10 police officers injured.
Hindu Organizations’ Religious Procession Sparks Unrest
The religious procession, known as the Brajmandal Yatra, was being carried out by Hindu organizations when a clash broke out between two groups. Following the altercation, reports of stone-pelting began to surface, escalating into a full-blown conflict that resulted in over 50 vehicles being set on fire. The violence also claimed the lives of two home guards, Neeraj (Kherki Daula Police Station) and Gursewak (Kherki Daula Police Station), and left more than 10 police officers injured.
Internet Services Suspended Following Unrest
In the wake of the escalating violence, the local police force initially struggled to control the situation, leading to the deployment of additional forces from Gurugram to the affected areas. As the situation continued to deteriorate, the local authorities decided to suspend internet services for three days in an attempt to curb the spread of misinformation and rumors that could potentially fuel further unrest.
Curfew Imposed in Nuh
The Deputy Commissioner of Nuh, Prashant Panwar, has confirmed that a curfew has been imposed in the area and Section 144 has been enforced. He also stated that the police are currently investigating the matter and appealed to the public to maintain peace and order.
The Start of the Violence
The violence reportedly began when the Brajmandal Yatra, which was being carried out by Hindu organizations, was pelted with stones in Mewat. The procession was planned to pass in front of a Shiv temple in Mewat, but was met with resistance and hostility, sparking the beginning of the violent unrest.
Monu Manesar: Wanted in Connection with the Unrest
Monu Manesar, a wanted individual in the Nasir-Junaid murder case, is believed to have played a role in the unrest. He had previously released a video on social media calling for people to participate in a rally in the Mewat area, stating that he would also be attending. His anticipated presence reportedly angered the local residents of Nuh, leading to the outbreak of violence.
Schools Closed in Faridabad
Following the outbreak of communal violence in neighboring district Nuh, the Deputy Commissioner of Faridabad has issued orders for all government and private schools to remain closed on August 1. Additionally, Section 144 has been imposed in the district to maintain law and order.
Appeal for Peace by Home Minister
In response to the violent unrest in the two districts, the Chief Minister and Home Minister of Haryana have issued statements appealing for peace and order. Haryana’s Home Minister Anil Vij stated that he has directed the Director-General of Police to ensure peace is restored, even if it requires the deployment of additional police forces. The Home Minister also appealed to the public to maintain peace and order.
