Aurangabad: Rioters hurl stones and stickks during a communal riot that escalated due to clamping illegal water connection in a religious place in Moti Karanja area of Aurangabad on Friday. PTI Photo (PTI5_12_2018_000051B) Aurangabad riots
Mumbai : Aurangabad has been rocked by violent incidents since Friday night. This violence in fact has led to extensive destruction of property, death of two and also left 50 injured, including some policemen. The rioting has scarred the co-existence of two communities in the city of Aurangabad, said Ashok Chavan the president of Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC).
Chavan cautioned the communal elements from fanning rumours and disturbing peace of the society. “The Congress party strongly condemns the violence and riots and appeal to the people to live in peaceful coexistence,” Chavan said in his note.
After over 100 shops were burnt or destroyed, the administration imposed section 144 of the Indian Penal Code to curb crowds. The authorities also snapped Internet and social media networks in the city as a precaution late on Friday to prevent rumour-mongering. The worst-hit areas were Shahganj, Nawabpura, Rajabazaar and Angribaug which continued to remain calm but tense even 24 hours later.
Chavan questioned the collapse of law and order. “What were the police doing when the anti-social elements went on a rampage the entire night? The police have failed to take preventive action and should have implemented the curfew at night itself when the incident broke out,” said Chavan.
“The rioters have burnt over 100 shops in the city. What was the police doing when these anti-social forces were on a rampage the whole night? Do they enjoy government patronage?” he asked.
Chavan said the entire incident raised many questions. He claimed that some political parties for the sake of getting political mileage were indulging in activities by activating their fringe elements. “This pattern has been seen prior to the elections since last several years. We have seen such events do occur. The government needs to ensure the faith of the people and take stern action against the micreants,” said Chavan. He called upon the people to maintain peace and remain vigilant to “foil the nefarious designs of communal and divisive forces” trying to spread social unrest between communities.