Several Muslim religious places Including mosques and durgahs were set ablaze during a rally
Waquar Hasan | Clarion India
NEW DELHI – Several religious places and shops were set afire when a rally was taken out in Gujarat’s Himmatnagar for Ramnavi celebration on Sunday.
After visiting the affected areas of Himmatnagar town, prominent lawyer and AIMMIM leader, Shamsad Pathan, told Clarion India that one mosque and four dargahs (Muslim shrine) were set on fire by the mob after vandalising them.
According to Pathan, one person was seriously injured in Himmatnagar.
Apart from religious places, a showroom was also set on fire. Several people including a couple were attacked at different places, he said.
“A couple, which was fasting, was beaten up when it was going somewhere. Their car was set on fire. They were terrified after the attack. Their daughter, who was scheduled to write her exam, could not reach the venue on time,” said Pathan.
He said the violence started after a group of people desecrated an Islamic flag. When some people resisted the desecration of the flag, they were attacked.
He said the rally, which was scheduled to be taken out in the afternoon, was delayed till evening. Before that, some people took rounds of the place wielding swords. During the procession, provocative slogans were also raised.
Pathan along with a delegation was going to meet Gujarat DGP (Directorate General Police). He demanded strict action against those involved in violence and those who took out violent rallies. He also demanded action against the policemen for showing negligence.
Apart from Himmatnagar, another town Khambhat also witnessed communal violence during Ramnavi procession. In the town, the body of an unidentified man was found late Sunday.
Speaking to Clarion India, a police official Vishnu Bhai from the Himmatnagar B Division Police Station said that the police have lodged an FIR against unknown person in connection with the incidents of violence. They have not made any arrest so far but are identifying the suspects with the help of CCTV footage. Presently, the police are taking out flag marches in the affected areas.
However, the official refused to divulge details of the incident.
On the other hand, the police have arrested nine people in connection with the violence in Khambhat. Islamic clerics were also among those who were arrested. Curfew has been imposed in the affected areas of Himmat Nagar and Khambhat. Prohibitory orders will remain in force till 13 April.
