Curfew imposed in Jameshedpur after two communities clash over a molestatation incident

Curfew has been imposed in Jamshedpur on 22 July following a clash between two communities over an alleged incident of sexual harassment.

The Incident

• The clash began two days ago after reports that a girl had been harassed by a member of a different community after which members of the girl's community had put up a road blockade near a temple. The standoff soon turned into violence and stone throwing.

• A bandh was called by the Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad, both rightwing groups affiliated to the BJP's ideological mentor Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

• More than 30 people, including policemen were injured in the clashes. Several shops and business establishments were ransacked and vehicles were burnt.

Present Situation

• The administration has issued orders for a clampdown and has requested the people not to move out of their houses.

• 15 companies of paramilitary forces have been deployed to control the situation.

• 103 rioters have been booked so far and they will be sent to judicial custody after questioning.

• 5 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) units have been deployed in the Mango area, Jamshedpur, which is highly prone area to communal violence.