Prompt police intervention averted major casualties, while community leaders and authorities worked together to restore peace and harmony in the region.
In a heartening display of interfaith cooperation, tension that erupted during a kanwariya procession in Bareilly's Jogi Nawada area was swiftly diffused by the local police, avoiding any major casualties. The incident occurred when the procession, comprising a dozen kanwariyas, approached a mosque, resulting in a dispute over something thrown near a religious spot.
According to police sources, minor injuries were reported, but the injured kanwariyas were promptly treated and discharged. Surprisingly, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Prabhakar Chaudhary stated that, as per available information, there were no reports of anyone being injured, pointing towards the success of the police intervention in mitigating the situation, as reported by PTI.
The tension-deescalation measures were further bolstered by the examination of CCTV footage, which revealed that stones were thrown from both sides. Consequently, the police are now in the process of identifying the individuals involved and are committed to taking strict action against them.
The kanwariyas, who were en route to Budaun to fetch water from the Ganga River, expressed their concerns and demands for action against the perpetrators by staging a brief protest. However, with the support of the police, they were persuaded to move forward.
Additional District Magistrate (City) R D Pandey assured that the situation is under control, and as a precautionary measure, additional police forces have been deployed in the area to maintain peace and harmony.
State Minister Arun Kumar, who also represents Bareilly as an MLA, emphasized the significance of an impartial investigation, ensuring that those found guilty will face strict punishment. His commitment to justice and maintaining communal harmony resonates with the local populace.
Pavan Arora, an office bearer of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, played a crucial role in pacifying the situation and encouraging the kanwariyas to continue their journey to Budaun.