Tensions escalated into violence as a Hindu religious procession passed through the Muslim-majority Nuh region, where curfew orders were implemented, internet services were shut off, and additional security forces were deployed. According to police officials, at least five people, including two police personnel, lost their lives in clashes between Hindu and Muslim groups, approximately 50 kilometers (30 miles) south of New Delhi, India’s capital.

The clashes began on Monday when the Hindu religious procession passed through the Muslim-dominated Nuh region in Haryana state. Subsequently, the violence spilled over into the neighboring Gurugram, where a mosque was set on fire, resulting in the death of a cleric and injuring another individual.

Authorities from the local administration in Nuh are currently investigating the cause of the confrontations. On Tuesday, government officials from Nuh and Gurugram held meetings with representatives from both Hindu and Muslim communities, appealing for calm and seeking ways to diffuse the situation.

Krishan Kumar, spokesperson of Nuh police, stated that the procession was intended to move from one temple to another, but clashes between two groups occurred along the way, leading to the deaths of four individuals, two of whom were members of the home guard, a voluntary force assisting police during civil disturbances.

In total, around 60 people, including ten police personnel, sustained injuries during the clashes. In response to the situation, Gurugram had already issued prohibitory orders, and schools and colleges were directed to remain closed on Tuesday.

Gurugram Police, in a statement on Tuesday, reported that the attackers responsible for torching the mosque had been identified, with several of them already apprehended. Additionally, security measures around places of worship were reinforced.

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar took to the messaging platform X (formerly known as Twitter) to condemn the incident in Nuh, where curfew orders were imposed, internet services suspended, and additional security forces deployed to contain the unrest.

SOURCE: REUTERS