Violent protest at midnight by Muslims in Bhopal, MP, over alleged hurting of religious sentiments

4 Police personnel injured
Curfew imposed
Allegation of objectionable remarks against Islam by Hindu activists while rescuing a Hindu girl living with a Muslim youth

Bhopal (MP) – On the night of 12 May, hundreds of Muslims took to the streets in protest against the alleged hurting of religious sentiments and the use of objectionable words. During the protest, Muslims also pelted stones at the Police. The windows of a Police vehicle were shattered, and 4 Police personnel were injured. In order to bring the situation under control, Police fired tear gas shells and dispersed the mob. Additional Police forces have since been deployed in sensitive areas of the old city. As a precautionary measure, Police have imposed curfew, while some Muslim organisations have warned of a “Bhopal Bandh” if the accused are not arrested.

What is the matter?

Some activists associated with a Hindu organisation caught a Muslim youth and a Hindu girl staying together in a hotel on 10^th May in Bhopal. It is alleged that the Muslim youth was assaulted, black ink and cow dung were smeared on his face, and he was handed over to the Police in a semi-nude condition. Objectionable words were also allegedly used before this. The Hindu girl concerned had stated that she was living in a live-in relationship with the youth.

The protesting Muslims alleged that objectionable language hurting religious sentiments was used during the assault. Following this, a delegation reached the Police Commissioner’s office and demanded the immediate arrest of the accused and action against them under the National Security Act. The Police stated that a special team has been formed to arrest the accused. (Will the Police, who are promp to act against Hindus, ever show such promptness against religious fanatics? – Editor)