Violence Erupts in Himachal Pradesh Over Alleged Love Jihad Incident

Police Deployed Amidst Rising Tensions

In the Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh, law enforcement has been mobilized following reports of violence. The clashes reportedly stemmed from a romantic relationship between individuals from two different communities. The conflict arose in the Paonta Sahib area, where an incident involving a Hindu girl and a Muslim boy allegedly running away from home led to a confrontation between two groups, resulting in injuries to at least ten individuals, including police officers.

Local Hindu organizations have been protesting in Paonta Sahib for four days, claiming that the situation is a case of 'love jihad.' To maintain order, police have deployed additional forces in the area.

Protests Escalate Over Allegations

The family of the 18-year-old girl asserts that she left with the 19-year-old boy on June 4 at his urging, prompting them to file a complaint with the authorities. Sources indicate that protesters, including members of local Hindu groups, blocked the Nahan-Paonta highway near Majra for about an hour on Friday, demanding strict action in the case.

Clashes Erupt as Tensions Rise

As the crowd of protesters moved towards the Muslim man's residence in the evening, stones were thrown from the opposite side, leading to a retaliatory response from the protesters. Police intervened to quell the violence, resulting in injuries to over ten individuals, including women and several officers.

Rajeev Bindal, the state president of the BJP, who arrived at the scene with local MLA Sukhram Chaudhary, condemned the police's actions against the protesters, stating that many, including women from Hindu organizations, were injured during the baton charge. He accused the Congress-led state government of responding to the 'love jihad' issue by attacking the victim's family.