Protests erupt in the city’s Johri Bazaar area; police use batons to disperse Muslim demonstrators
NEW DELHI/JAIPUR — Tension gripped Rajasthan’s capital city of Jaipur as Muslim protesters clashed with police on Saturday after BJP MLA Balmukund Acharya pasted objectionable posters and raised provocative slogans at the historic Jama Masjid in Johri Bazaar.
Following Friday’s incident, a large number of people, including many from the Muslim community, gathered at Parakota on Saturday, demanding immediate action against the MLA from Hawa Mahal constituency. Protesters raised slogans, condemning the act and calling for justice.
A video of Balmukund Acharya’s provocative activities has gone viral on social media. The video shows him and his supporters assembling outside the mosque and shouting slogans and pasting posters, leading to heightened tensions in the area.
In #Rajasthan's #Jaipur, #BJP MLA #BalamukundAcharya reached the steps of Jama Masjid. He pasted a poster of #Pakistan on the ground, climbed onto it, and raised slogans.
— Hate Detector 🔍 (@HateDetectors) April 26, 2025
The mosque committee released this video.
However, after an FIR was registered, the MLA has apologized.… pic.twitter.com/F1DTwytXuq
Following the video’s circulation, a large crowd gathered, demanding immediate action against the BJP leader. “We want justice. Action must be taken against those who try to disturb peace,” a protester at the site said.
The situation grew tense as more people assembled, prompting police to issue an appeal urging citizens not to believe in rumours. Senior Congress leaders Mohammad Rafiq Khan and Amin Kagzi arrived at the scene in an attempt to pacify the crowd.
Speaking to the media, Mohammad Rafiq Khan said, “We requested the people to maintain peace and assured them that action would be taken. The people were angry, but we kept trying to convince them.”
Despite their efforts, the crowd remained firm, demanding immediate registration of a case. The two Congress MLAs, along with members of the mosque committee, later met Police Commissioner Biju George Joseph to press for strict action.
The police commissioner assured the delegation that appropriate legal action was being taken. “An FIR has been lodged against Balmukund Acharya under relevant sections. The law will take its course,” he said.
An earlier video shows police trying to disperse the crowd and reportedly raining lathis on the protesters, causing panic and a stampede in the area. The video shows police hitting protesters with batons while people run helter-skelter.
Mohammad Arif, one of the protesters, said, “We were protesting peacefully, demanding legal action against the MLA. Instead of listening to us, the police attacked us. This is injustice.”
Another protester, Salma Bano, added, “We only wanted our voices heard. Why were we beaten for asking for justice?”
However, the police denied using force.
The situation remains tense in the area. Shopkeepers in Johri Bazaar closed their shops, fearing further unrest.
Rapid Action Force personnel have been deployed at key points in the city. Authorities are appealing for peace and urging citizens to report any attempts to disturb communal harmony.
An official from the local administration said, “We are monitoring the situation closely. People should stay calm and avoid spreading unverified information.”
The heavy police presence and closure of shops reflect the deep concern among locals.
