Key Points:
- Violent clashes erupt in Indore’s Mhow during Champions Trophy victory celebrations.
- Stone-pelting and arson reported; several vehicles torched, four injured.
- Police arrest 13 accused; National Security Act (NSA) invoked against some.
- Heavy security deployed; situation now under control, investigation ongoing.
Indore: Celebrations marking India’s thrilling victory in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 took a violent turn late Sunday night in Mhow, Indore district, as clashes erupted between two groups, leading to stone-pelting, arson, and widespread panic. Authorities swiftly intervened to restore order, arresting 13 individuals and invoking stringent provisions of the National Security Act (NSA) against some accused.
The incident unfolded late Sunday night when enthusiastic cricket fans organized a celebratory procession following India’s triumph over New Zealand in Dubai. As the rally approached the Jama Masjid area in Mhow, tensions escalated dramatically. According to eyewitness accounts and preliminary police reports, a group allegedly began pelting stones at rally participants near Jama Masjid, triggering chaos and retaliation from the other side.
Several vehicles including three cars and around twelve two-wheelers were vandalized or set ablaze during the violence. Shops in nearby Patti Bazar and adjoining areas also suffered damage due to arson attacks. Videos circulating on social media showed scenes of panic and destruction as residents fled for safety.
Responding immediately to distress calls, police teams deployed tear gas shells and resorted to lathi-charge to disperse rioters and regain control of the situation. Additional security forces were promptly deployed across sensitive areas of Mhow town. Due to its proximity to an army cantonment area, military units remained on alert as a precautionary measure.
Indore District Magistrate Ashish Singh confirmed that peace has been restored completely. He emphasized that strict action would be taken against those responsible for instigating violence. “We immediately mobilized police forces to stop stone-pelting and arson incidents. Investigations are underway to identify all culprits involved through CCTV footage,” Singh said.
Deputy Inspector General (DIG Rural) Nimish Agarwal assured that a thorough investigation is ongoing. He advised citizens not to take law into their own hands or spread misinformation online. Authorities are closely examining CCTV footage and mobile phone videos from eyewitnesses to identify additional suspects involved in the violence.
In response to the incident, local Hindu organizations called for a bandh on Monday in protest against the violence. Although most shops remained voluntarily closed, activists were seen persuading some shopkeepers who had opened their establishments early Monday morning.
The police continue intensive patrolling and surveillance in affected areas of Mhow town. Officials have appealed for calm among residents while urging them not to spread false information online or through social media platforms.
Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG Rural) Nimish Agarwal reassured citizens that detailed investigations are underway: “The situation is completely under control now. We urge everyone not to take law into their own hands or spread rumors online. All those involved will be identified and held accountable”.
With heightened security measures still in place, authorities remain vigilant to prevent any recurrence of violence while investigations continue into Sunday’s troubling events.
