Main Accused in UP Durga Puja Violence Arrested After Encounter Near Nepal Border

In a significant development in the Bahraich Durga Puja violence case, the Uttar Pradesh police arrested Sarfaraz, the main accused, near the Nepal border after a brief encounter. The violence, which stemmed from a dispute over music played during a Durga idol immersion procession, led to widespread clashes, resulting in the tragic death of a local resident, Ram Gopal Mishra.

Violent Clashes in Bahraich

The violence erupted on Sunday evening in Maharajganj area of Mansoor village in Bahraich district. The clashes reportedly began when an argument ensued over the use of loudspeakers during the Durga idol immersion. What started as a verbal disagreement quickly escalated into stone-pelting and gunfire. At least six people were injured, including a man who was shot and later succumbed to his injuries.

The deceased, identified as 22-year-old Ram Gopal Mishra, was from Rehua Mansoor village. His family initially refused to cremate his body and staged a sit-down protest, demanding swift action from the authorities. Following assurances from police and administrative officials, the protest was called off, but tensions in the area remained high.

Police Response and Arrests

In the wake of the violence, the Uttar Pradesh police launched a large-scale operation to arrest those responsible. A flag march was conducted to restore order, and over 30 people were detained as initial suspects. The situation, however, took a violent turn once again the following day, with reports of arson and attacks in some areas of the district. Local businesses and vehicles were torched, further intensifying the unrest.

As part of the ongoing investigation, the police arrested Sarfaraz, the primary suspect, along with his co-accused, Talib. Both men were attempting to flee to Nepal when they were intercepted by law enforcement near the Nepal border. The two accused reportedly tried to evade capture, leading to an encounter in which both were shot in the leg. They were subsequently transported to a local hospital for medical treatment.

According to Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Amitabh Yash, five people, including Sarfaraz and Talib, have been arrested so far in connection with the violence. Yash also confirmed that the two accused were critically injured during the encounter and are under police custody while receiving treatment.

Post-Mortem Examination Reveals Details

The post-mortem examination of Ram Gopal Mishra revealed disturbing details of his injuries. Bahraich Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sanjay Kumar disclosed that “25 to 30 pellets” were recovered from Mishra’s body. Additionally, the report noted significant injuries around his left eye and toenails, suggesting the severity of the violence.

Mishra’s death sparked outrage in the community, with local residents demanding justice and accountability for the violent clashes. The victim’s family continues to seek justice, while the community mourns his untimely death.

Arrest of Key Suspects and Progress in Investigation

Apart from the arrest of Sarfaraz and Talib, the police have apprehended another suspect, Danish, alias Shaheer Khan, who was among the six named accused in the murder case. This arrest brings the total number of individuals detained in connection with the violence to 55. The police have registered 11 separate cases, with two cases each filed on October 13 and 14, and seven more on October 15.

The arrest of the main accused is seen as a major breakthrough in the investigation, but police officials continue their efforts to identify and apprehend other individuals involved in the clashes.

Efforts to Restore Normalcy

As tensions escalated following the violence, authorities took swift measures to prevent further unrest. Mobile internet and broadband services were suspended for three days in the region to curb the spread of rumors and misinformation. Heavy police presence has been maintained in Bahraich, especially within a 20-kilometer radius of Maharajganj town, where the violence initially broke out.

To ensure peace and order, the police conducted multiple flag marches and community outreach programs, urging locals to maintain calm. The administration has also engaged with community leaders and religious figures to promote dialogue and reduce the chances of further confrontations.

Background of the Incident

The incident has drawn widespread attention across Uttar Pradesh, as violence during religious festivals is not uncommon but rarely escalates to this magnitude. The use of loudspeakers during processions is often a source of tension between communities, particularly in mixed religious areas. However, in this case, the disagreement quickly spiraled into a full-scale violent altercation, resulting in significant property damage and loss of life.

Continued Investigation and Arrests Expected

As the investigation progresses, more arrests are expected in the coming days. The Uttar Pradesh police have assured the public that all those responsible for the violence will be brought to justice. Additional security measures have been implemented in Bahraich and surrounding areas to prevent any further escalation.

The local administration has also announced compensation for the victims of the violence, including financial aid to the family of the deceased. As tensions gradually subside, authorities are hopeful that peace will soon return to the district, although the scars of the violence will take time to heal.

 

The arrest of Sarfaraz, the main accused in the Bahraich Durga Puja violence case, marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation. While the situation in Bahraich remains tense, authorities are working diligently to restore order and bring justice to those affected by the violence. The community continues to grapple with the aftermath of the clashes, as police efforts to apprehend additional suspects are ongoing.