Dozens of Vehicles Burned, Temple Under Attack as Communal Friction Surfaces in Mewat

Update: Section 144 imposed, there has been a distressing exodus of Hindu families, with 5 dead and 50 people left severely injured.

During the violent clashes in Mewat, Haryana's Muslim-dominated Nuh area, fifteen injured individuals were admitted to Shaheed Hasan Khan Medical College, with three in critical condition. Tragically, one unidentified person lost their life, and five policemen were among the injured. 

Mewat, Haryana: The tranquil landscape of Mewat, a district known for its peaceful coexistence of diverse communities, was marred by violent clashes as religious tensions escalated during Vishwa Hindu Parishad's (VHP) Shobha Yatra. The situation turned alarming when hundreds of vehicles belonging to Shivbhakts were burned, even ambulance and reports of continuous stone pelting and an attack on a revered temple surfaced, causing distress and anguish among residents.

The incident took place during the VHP's religious procession, which aimed to celebrate and uphold Hindu traditions. As the procession made its way through the Mewat district, it encountered resistance, leading to a volatile situation.

Local eyewitnesses reported that a group of individuals, allegedly identified by their clothes as Namazis, resorted to stone pelting, causing disruptions and damage to vehicles. The stone pelting was followed by shocking reports of alleged burnings and shootings, further intensifying the unrest.

Amidst the chaos, a temple near the Nalhar Mahadev Temple was reportedly attacked, causing concern and apprehension among the Hindu community. The attack on the sacred site has deepened the divide, raising apprehensions about the future of communal harmony in the region.

Congress MLA from Nuh, Ch Aftab Ahmed, expressed his disappointment in the failure of the administration and police to prevent the escalation of violence. He, along with Congress MP Deepender Hooda, appealed to the people to maintain calm, brotherhood, harmony, and peace during these challenging times. The Congress leaders emphasized the significance of unity in times of crisis, urging citizens not to let violence and misinformation drive them apart.

Responding to the escalating tensions, Haryana's Home Minister, Anil Vij, assured the public that adequate security measures have been put in place to restore peace in the Nuh area. With heavy deployment of Haryana Police and the paramilitary force, authorities are committed to preventing any further untoward incidents and bringing the situation under control.

In light of the gravity of the situation, the local administration took measures to control the spread of false information. Temporary suspension of mobile internet services in the Nuh district aimed to curb the dissemination of inflammatory content that might escalate tensions and lead to further unrest.

The situation in Mewat escalated further as rumors circulated on social media, alleging violence against Hindus. Reports of alleged burnings, shootings, and attacks on police and public vehicles surfaced, fueling tensions among communities.

As the authorities investigate the incidents, they earnestly appeal to the public to exercise restraint and not fall prey to rumors. Maintaining peace, promoting understanding, and embracing unity will be essential in navigating through these turbulent times.

The local administration, community leaders, and law enforcement agencies are working collectively to restore tranquility and ensure that Mewat regains its reputation as a symbol of communal harmony. In this critical juncture, it is crucial for all citizens to remain vigilant, reject violence, and contribute to the healing process.

While the incidents have caused concern and apprehension, it is essential to remember that Mewat has a history of peaceful cohabitation between its diverse communities. By fostering open dialogue, respecting each other's beliefs, and strengthening communal bonds, Mewat can once again reclaim its identity as a place where diversity is celebrated, and peace prevails.