Communal clashes broke out in Kanpur on Friday following a controversy over the closure of shops during the bandh called in protest against BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma for derogatory remarks against Prophet Muhammad. Several people were injured due to stone pelting and damage to vehicles. ADG Law and Order Prashant Kumar said the situation has been brought under control and additional forces have been deployed.
Police said that 17 people have been detained so far after the incident.
Speaking to the media, Kanpur District Magistrate Neha Sharma said, “After the initial uproar, there was a law and order situation. However, the situation has been brought under control. After stone pelting, all of us including CP and Joint Commissioner are present on the spot.
In protest against the derogatory statement of BJP leader Nupur Sharma, the president of a local union of Muslims, Zafar Hayat Hashmi, had called for a bandh in Nai Sadak of Begumganj police station area. Thousands gathered in Kanpur after a social organization announced the closure of Muslim-majority areas. Other communities who were not in favor of closing the market, opposed the bandh. After the uproar after the Friday prayers, the top officials along with the force of 25 police stations reached the spot. The Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) was also called. Sources told News18, “Top officials along with police from several police stations reached the spot and pacified the atmosphere.”
According to reports, stones were also pelted at the police and PAC.
Officials said that CCTV footage is being examined and efforts are on to nab the accused. Police are searching for the mastermind of the clash, Zafar Hayat Hashmi.
There are also unconfirmed reports of firing during the clashes. However, the administration has not yet given any information about the number of injured.
An FIR was registered against BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma for hurting religious sentiments through his remarks on Prophet Muhammad during a televised news debate in Maharashtra’s Pune on Wednesday. The police have booked sections 153A (promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, caste, place of birth, residence), 153B (allegations, claims prejudicial to national unity), 295A (deliberate and malicious acts, religious acts of any class) implemented with the intention of hurting sentiments). Sharma by insulting his religion or religious beliefs) of the Indian Penal Code.
read all breaking news , today’s fresh news And IPL 2022 Live Updates Here.