Tear gas used in Ujjain as Shahi Masjid demolition sparks protests
Tensions flare in Ujjain as police use tear gas to disperse mobs protesting the Shahi Masjid demolition. Over 2,500 personnel deployed.
A heavy security blanket has been thrown over Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, following violent clashes and stone-pelting during the demolition of a portion of the Shahi Masjid complex. The demolition, intended to facilitate road-widening projects in preparation for the Simhastha Kumbh, triggered intense protests that forced police to deploy tear gas shells to disperse agitated mobs.
Violence erupts during road-widening work
The situation turned volatile on Monday when protesters attempted to halt the demolition process. Reports from the ground indicate that miscreants resorted to stone-pelting against security forces. In response to the escalating violence, the police utilized tear gas and mild force to regain control of the area. The tension was further heightened as protesters, including women, attempted to push through narrow alleys and block roads.
To manage the unrest, authorities have deployed a massive force of more than 2,500 police personnel and officers. Members of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) are also stationed at the site to maintain order. The entire Chhatri Chowk area has been cleared and placed under a strict security perimeter, with entry prohibited for the general public.
Police response and security measures
Superintendent of Police (SP) Pradeep Sharma, who is monitoring the situation on-site, stated that the police had anticipated potential disturbances. He confirmed that while some officers sustained minor injuries during the stone-pelting, the situation is currently under control.
Key security actions taken by the administration include:
- Surveillance: The entire area is being monitored using high-tech tools, including CCTV cameras and drones.
- Social Media Monitoring: Police are keeping a close watch on digital platforms to prevent the spread of misinformation.
- Detentions: Authorities claimed that individuals from outside the district, who allegedly arrived to incite trouble, were detained at the borders late last night.
- Identification: Law enforcement intends to use drone and CCTV footage to identify perpetrators and register FIRs against those involved in the violence.
Community involvement and road blockades
According to SP Sharma, the demolition work was actually initiated by the mosque committee itself as part of the development plan. However, differences emerged among various groups regarding the process, leading to the unrest. He also noted that a road blockade attempted by a group of women was resolved after police counselled them and presented video evidence of the unfolding situation.
"All communities and sections of society are continuously extending their cooperation and support in their respective areas," Sharma said, adding that leaders from the Muslim community are also issuing video messages to urge calm and peace among the citizens.
The administration has issued an alert across Ujjain city and has appealed to the public to cooperate with the law enforcement agencies to maintain communal harmony during this sensitive period of urban development.