The recent violence in Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh, has drawn criticism from Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) leader Mayawati, who has voiced strong concerns over the way the Yogi Adityanath government has handled the situation.
The clashes, which erupted during a Durga idol immersion procession, have left the region tense, with one person dead and several others injured. Mayawati has urged the administration to take impartial action to restore peace and prevent further escalation of tensions between communities.
In a series of public statements, Mayawati highlighted the need for the government to maintain law and order, especially during festivals that hold deep religious significance for many.
She pointed out that it is the responsibility of the authorities to ensure peace and safety for all citizens, regardless of religion or occasion. According to her, if the government had taken the necessary precautions and implemented better arrangements, such incidents could have been avoided altogether.
Mayawati expressed her deep concern over the deteriorating law and order situation in Bahraich, stating that the violence had spiralled out of control. She emphasised that the actions of the administration should be unbiased and lawful, to ensure that the situation does not worsen and peace can be restored quickly. Her comments come at a time when tensions in the area are high, and many are looking to the government for swift and decisive action.
She further stressed that the government must uphold its duty to protect people’s lives, property, and religious practices. Special arrangements, according to Mayawati, should be made during festivals to ensure that such incidents do not happen again.
She reiterated that maintaining peace is the government’s primary responsibility, and failing to do so in Bahraich has resulted in the tragic loss of life and injuries to others.
Meanwhile, other political leaders have also spoken out about the violence in Bahraich. Samajwadi Party leader ST Hasan condemned the clashes, calling for strict action against those who were responsible for disrupting the peace.
Hasan emphasised that the law must be upheld, and anyone who tries to disturb the harmony of the country, whether political or otherwise, should face consequences for their actions. His remarks reflect the growing concern among political figures about the potential for further unrest in the region.
The incident that sparked the violence occurred during the immersion of a Durga idol in the Mahasi area of Bahraich district. A clash broke out between two communities as the procession passed through a Muslim-majority area near a mosque.
According to police reports, the argument escalated, and shots were fired, resulting in the death of a member of the Hindu community. The situation quickly turned tense, and more people were injured in the altercation.
Local authorities, including Bahraich Superintendent of Police Vrinda Shukla, have confirmed the details of the incident. She explained that the argument between the two groups led to gunfire, and in the aftermath, tensions rose throughout the area.
To prevent further violence, the police conducted a route march in the affected regions, demonstrating their commitment to restoring order and preventing more clashes.
The Uttar Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has also taken note of the situation. Adityanath has assured the public that those responsible for disrupting the peace in Bahraich will be held accountable.
His government has emphasised that maintaining peace and order is a priority, and strict action will be taken against anyone found to be inciting violence or engaging in illegal activities.
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