A tense situation emerged in Bhopal after arson and stone pelting. The situation occurred due to differences between Muslims and Hindus over the right to pray inside Hamidia Hospital complex on Tuesday night.
While there were two rounds of stone pelting, at least four vehicles were ablaze near Peer Gate. The situation turned violent around 8.30 pm when a large number of Muslims met on the road for Iftar. At the same time, the members of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) started heading towards a temple inside the hospital complex to offer prayers.
Officials’ cane-charged and also used tear gas shells to scatter the mobs. Though there were reports of injuries, it could not be immediately confirmed. Arson was also reported from the zone.
The situation caused panic and shops were closed.
The second round of stone pelting started around 10.30 pm after Muslims came out on the road following Namaz in a nearby masjid.
“The situation is now under control. There was heavy stone pelting from both sides and we had to use teargas and cane-charge the mobs. Heavy force has been deployed to maintain peace,” Arvind Saxena, superintendent of police (north), Bhopal, told HT.
The area is tensed ever since some minarets were found in a structure during digging on the Hamidia hospital premises. Muslim community claimed it was a masjid, the administration, however, said there was inadequate proof that it was a masjid, and experts would decide on it.
