Pattern of Unrest: Religious Processions and Flashpoints of Conflict

Communal clashes in Jharkhand, especially around Hazaribagh, are increasing, raising concerns about law and order.

- SHASHI SINGH

Recent violence in the area has sparked worries about security.

Disputes over religious processions, loud music, and social media tensions have led to repeated unrest. With Ram Navami and Sarhul approaching, authorities are on high alert, while political parties continue to trade blame.

Communal clashes during religious events have increased in Jharkhand in 2025. The latest incident occurred on 25 March in Hazaribagh, where two groups clashed during the Mangala Julus procession near Jhanda Chowk on Jama Masjid Road.

As stone-pelting started, the police stepped in, using batons and firing four warning shots into the air to break up the crowd. The presence of the Hazaribagh Superintendent of Police (SP) highlighted the seriousness of the situation. Although no one was injured, a large crowd gathered afterward, adding to the tension in the area.

This is not an isolated incident—several religious festivals in recent months have been marred by violence, raising concerns about law enforcement and communal harmony.

On 2 February, tensions arose during Saraswati Puja in Badabaru village, Khunti, following a dispute over the celebration's location, prompting police intervention.

Just two days later, on 4 February, opposition to a Saraswati immersion procession in Gola, Ramgarh, resulted in stone-pelting and injuries. Similarly, on 7 February, a confrontation over loud music in Kashidih, Jamshedpur, turned violent, leaving three people injured.