Kamal Ghorui
INDORE: Tension continued in Tarana town of Madhya Pradesh’s Ujjain district on Friday following clashes between two groups that erupted a day earlier, leading to incidents of arson, stone pelting and damage to public and private property.The situation escalated on Friday when unknown elements allegedly pelted stones at houses, breaking window panes. Miscreants also targeted a bus, which was set on fire, while some shops were damaged, police said.The clashes had first broken out on Thursday evening in Tarana, located around 35 km from the Ujjain district headquarters, leaving around six people injured. The atmosphere remained tense on Friday as protests intensified in the town.Police said incidents of violence were reported on Friday, following which security arrangements were strengthened. A crowd gathered after Friday prayers, during which roads were blocked and sporadic incidents of violence were reported, further escalating tensions.Videos showing a bus being torched and damage to property circulated on social media, adding to concern among residents. Police officials said the videos are being examined as part of the investigation.Ujjain superintendent of police Pradeep Sharma said the situation is under control. “Violence was reported on Friday. Around 15 to 20 people have been arrested so far, and additional police force has been deployed in sensitive areas,” Sharma said.Police have registered cases related to stone pelting, arson and rioting. Five accused have already been arrested in connection with Thursday’s assault incident, while a search is on for another accused, officials said.As a precautionary measure, prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) have been imposed in the town to prevent further escalation.Senior officials said continuous patrolling and flag marches are being carried out, and residents have been urged to maintain peace and refrain from spreading rumours.
