Tension in Rajasthan's Bhilwara after locals thrash cleric over 'anti-national' slogans

BHILWARA: Mahuwa village near Bhilwara’s Mandalgarh remained tense on Thursday after local residents allegedly attacked a cleric over claims that he raised objectionable slogans on Wednesday evening.

The police reported that tensions began when accusations arose that a cleric, accompanied by children, chanted anti-national slogans, including “Pakistan Zindabad”. Enraged villagers then assaulted the cleric and some individuals set fire to makeshift cabins belonging to a particular community.

Following these events, the police detained several people, leading to protests and the closure of markets in Mahuwa on Thursday. Sources said that the cleric was travelling with children on a tractor when locals accused him of chanting anti-national slogans. This sparked outrage among the villagers, who apprehended the cleric andbrought him to the village assembly, where he was beaten.

Due to the escalating situation, a large police force was deployed and several individuals were taken into custody. This further fuelled the anger of the villagers, leading to market closures and protests. SHO (Mandalgarh) Chandra Prabhat said the police quickly arrived at the scene and arrested both the cleric and his associate for disturbing public peace.

Additionally, eight individuals were arrested for setting fire to half a dozen cabins. However, no formal complaint regarding the alleged anti-national slogans was filed till late Thursday evening. The police mentioned that a CLG (Community Liaison Group) meeting will be held to pacify people. Both sides have been counselled and those responsible for disturbing peace have been arrested.

The police assured the public that appropriate action will be taken against those found guilty.