Bahraich tense day after man dies during idol immersion; net suspended amid arson, protest

A large contingent of forces deployed to bring the situation under control

- BISWAJEET BANERJEE

LUCKNOW: Tensions flared in Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh, on Monday following a violent clash during a Durga idol immersion procession in the Mahsi tehsil the previous day. The violence led to the death of a 22-year-old man, Ram Gopal Mishra, who succumbed to a gunshot wound. The clash reportedly began following a disagreement over loud music being played during a procession passing through the area. According to the police, stones were hurled at the procession, and someone fired shots, resulting in Mishra's death.

His death sparked widespread anger among villagers, leading to acts of vandalism in the Maharajganj market, where vehicles were damaged and set ablaze. Six more individuals sustained injuries due to stone pelting and gunfire.

In the aftermath of the incident, protests broke out across Bahraich on Monday, with demonstrators setting a hospital and several shops on fire. The local administration responded by suspending internet services to curb the spread of unrest.

Meanwhile, the last rites of Mishra were performed amid heavy police presence. Eyewitnesses said a massive crowd had gathered for Mishra's funeral procession when the body reached Rehua Mansoor village on Monday morning.