In a disturbing escalation of communal tensions, the small town of Tarana in Madhya Pradesh’s Ujjain district has become a hotspot of unrest following a minor dispute that spiraled out of control late Thursday night. Police have arrested 20 individuals so far, as confirmed by Superintendent of Police Pradeep Sharma on Friday.
The incident began with an alleged assault on Sohail Thakur, a Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) activist, and his associate. According to reports, unidentified assailants attacked them from behind, leaving both with serious head injuries. They were rushed to a hospital in Ujjain for treatment. A case has been registered against five named suspects—Sappan Mirza, Ishaan Mirza, Shadab alias Idli, Salman Mirza, Riyazwan Mirza, and Naveed—with five already in custody.
Enraged by the attack, right-wing groups took to the streets Friday, raising religious slogans and vandalizing around a dozen buses at the local bus stand. At least six people were injured in the melee. Tensions peaked again after Friday prayers when crowds allegedly set two buses ablaze, looted shops, and pelted stones at various locations.
Police swiftly intervened, deploying heavy forces across the town. Flag marches are ongoing, and vehicles are patrolling round the clock. To maintain order, the district administration has imposed a curfew under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). CCTV footage is being scrutinized to identify miscreants, and appeals are being made via loudspeakers to ignore rumors.
SP Sharma emphasized that the situation is under control but vigilance remains high. ‘We are holding meetings with community leaders from both sides and have registered attempt-to-murder cases against six people. Strict action will continue against those disturbing peace,’ he stated.
Markets in Tarana remained shuttered throughout Friday, with traffic restored in affected areas. The police continue to urge residents to maintain harmony and avoid provocative actions, as investigations deepen into the root causes of this flare-up.