Twenty-two individuals have been arrested for their alleged involvement in a violent clash that erupted during a Holi procession in Jharkhand’s Giridih district, police officials confirmed on Saturday.
The altercation, which took place on Friday in the Ghorthamba locality, resulted in multiple injuries and significant property damage, including the torching of several shops and vehicles.
According to Khorimahua Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Rajendra Prasad, those detained belong to both groups involved in the clash. He further detailed the extent of the destruction, stating that four makeshift shops, five motorcycles, and two four-wheelers were set ablaze during the violence.
Authorities have been actively working to identify and apprehend all individuals responsible for the incident. Giridih Superintendent of Police (SP) Bimal Kumar had earlier announced that a manhunt was underway to track down those implicated, emphasising that the situation had been brought under complete control.
He assured that strict legal action would be taken against those found guilty of instigating or participating in the violence.
To prevent any further unrest, a substantial deployment of police personnel has been arranged to maintain law and order in the area. Meanwhile, the incident has sparked political reactions, with leaders blaming the administration for failing to prevent the clash.
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Jharkhand BJP chief and Leader of the Opposition in the state assembly, Babulal Marandi, accused the ruling JMM-led government of indulging in appeasement politics, which he claimed was the root cause of the violence.
In a post on X, he criticised the administration, alleging that its failure had led to the outbreak of stone-pelting and arson during the Holi celebrations in Ghorthamba.
Union Minister and Koderma MP Annapurna Devi also condemned the incident, stating that the situation deteriorated due to inadequate vigilance by the local administration. She described the attempt by anti-social elements to disrupt communal harmony during Holi— a festival symbolising love and brotherhood— as deeply unfortunate.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, ensuring peace is restored and justice is served to those affected by the violence.
Also Read: Clashes erupt during Holi in Jharkhand, several injured
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