Decline in Communal Riots in India Amid Rising Systemic Violence
Decrease in Communal Riots Yet Systemic Violence Persists
A recent report from the Centre for Study of Society and Secularism indicates a notable decline in communal riots across India in 2025. The report documented 28 incidents, a significant drop from 59 in 2024, marking a 52% reduction. These riots resulted in four fatalities and left 360 individuals injured.
Conversely, there was a slight uptick in mob violence, with 14 reported incidents leading to eight deaths, compared to 13 incidents and 11 deaths in 2024.
The findings were based on articles from various Mumbai publications. Despite the reduction in riots, the report highlighted ongoing issues of identity-based conflicts and religious animosity.
Contaminated Water Crisis in Indore
In a tragic incident in Indore, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his silence following the deaths of at least ten individuals due to contaminated drinking water. He accused the BJP-led Madhya Pradesh government of severe mismanagement, questioning why complaints about foul-smelling water were ignored.
Reports indicate that over 1,400 residents in the Bhagirathpura area experienced symptoms like vomiting and dehydration, with the first cases emerging on December 24. While the Mayor confirmed ten deaths, local residents claim the toll is higher, including that of an infant.
Ghaziabad Police Investigate Intimidation Incident
The Ghaziabad Police have initiated an inquiry following a viral video showing a police officer intimidating residents in temporary settlements. The officer claimed to possess a device capable of identifying Bangladeshi nationals.
In the footage, the officer is seen placing what appears to be a smartphone on an elderly man's back, asserting that it indicated the man was Bangladeshi. The elderly man and his family insisted they were from Bihar and presented their identification documents.
Assam Government Distributes Mobile Phones to Journalists
In Assam, two journalists have returned mobile phones given as New Year gifts by the state government ahead of the Assembly elections. The government plans to distribute phones to over 2,200 accredited journalists.
Some journalists received their devices during a press conference held by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, while others are expected to collect theirs from district officials by January 14. Each journalist will receive a Samsung Galaxy F17, valued between Rs 12,600 and Rs 16,000. An official noted that the government traditionally provides gifts to journalists, including items like laptop bags and water bottles.