Key Points:
- Violent clashes during Holi procession in Giridih district, Jharkhand
- Several injured, three shops and multiple vehicles set on fire
- Heavy police deployment; situation now under control
- Authorities promise strict action after identifying culprits
- Similar communal violence reported recently during Mahashivratri in Hazaribagh
Giridih: Violent clashes erupted between two groups during a Holi procession on Friday in the Ghorathamba area of Giridih district, Jharkhand, leaving several injured and causing significant property damage. According to police officials, tensions escalated when one group objected to the Holi procession passing through their locality, triggering heated arguments that quickly turned violent.
Eyewitnesses reported stone-pelting from both sides, leading to chaos and panic among residents. At least three shops were set ablaze during the violence, and several vehicles, including motorcycles and cars, were also torched by miscreants.
Giridih Superintendent of Police Dr. Bimal confirmed that authorities are currently identifying individuals involved from both communities. He assured residents that strict legal action would be taken against those found responsible for instigating violence. He further stated that although several people sustained minor injuries, no serious casualties have been reported.
Deputy Development Commissioner Smita Kumari attributed the incident to anti-social elements attempting to disrupt communal harmony during the festive celebrations. She emphasized that security forces acted swiftly to restore order and prevent further escalation.
Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) of Khorimahua, Rajendra Prasad, informed that heavy police deployment has been established throughout the affected area. The administration remains vigilant and continues monitoring the situation closely to prevent any recurrence of violence.
This incident follows closely after recent communal tensions reported during Mahashivratri celebrations on February 26, 2025, in Jharkhand’s Hazaribagh district. During that event, disputes over decorations and loudspeaker installations led to violent confrontations between Hindu and Muslim communities. Several shops and vehicles were similarly set ablaze amid stone-pelting incidents.
Authorities are investigating the underlying causes behind these repeated incidents of communal unrest and have urged citizens to maintain peace and harmony during festive occasions.
