Gariaband, Chhattisgarh — Violence broke out between two communities in Dutkaiya village of Chhattisgarh’s Gariaband district on Sunday night, leaving several homes burned and multiple police personnel injured after stones were thrown at security forces, officials said.
The situation escalated rapidly following a clash between local residents, prompting the deployment of a heavy police force to restore order. Authorities said the situation is currently under control but remains tense.
Background to the Violence
According to police, tensions in the village had been simmering for nearly a year following the alleged vandalism of a temple idol, a case in which three individuals were arrested earlier. The accused, including a man identified as Arif, were recently released on bail.
After returning to the village, the accused allegedly threatened local residents and intimidated witnesses connected to the temple vandalism case. On Sunday morning, Arif and two others are accused of attacking four to six young men with sticks, allegedly over complaints filed against them with the police.
The assault triggered widespread anger, leading to violent confrontations between members of the two communities.
Arson and Attacks on Property
Enraged villagers allegedly targeted houses and vehicles belonging to the accused group, setting several homes and vehicles on fire. Police said women and children were present inside some of the houses at the time, prompting urgent rescue efforts.
When police teams arrived to evacuate residents and control the situation, they were met with stone-pelting from sections of the crowd.
Police Injured, Heavy Force Deployed
During the clashes, at least two police personnel were injured. Police resorted to a baton charge to disperse the mob and prevent further escalation.
To stabilize the situation, additional police forces were deployed from Rajim, Fingeshwar, and nearby police stations. Inspector General of Police and Gariaband Superintendent of Police Vedvrat Siramour personally visited the site to oversee security arrangements.
Accused Arrested, FIRs Registered
Police confirmed that all three accused have been arrested. Three separate First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered at Rajim police station in connection with the violence, arson, and attacks on police personnel.
Superintendent of Police Vedvrat Siramour stated that the accused had also been involved in violent incidents in two neighboring villages prior to the Dutkaiya clashes. He added that strict legal action will be taken against all those involved in the violence.
While curfew-like conditions prevail in the village, authorities said the situation is now largely under control, and continuous monitoring is in place to prevent any further unrest.