December 24, 2024: At least six people were injured in a violent clash between two communities in the Jehangirabad area of Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, following a dispute over speeding bikes. The conflict escalated with stone-throwing and sword-waving, creating tensions between the Sikh and Muslim communities.
The altercation began on December 22 when a man named Faiz allegedly drove recklessly through a Sikh-dominated street, which led to a confrontation. During this incident, Faiz reportedly attacked a member of the Sikh community with a vegetable cart knife. Police quickly registered a case against Faiz, arresting him.
The situation worsened on December 24 when tensions boiled over. Members of the Sikh community allegedly launched an attack on Michael, a man from the Muslim community, triggering widespread violence. The groups threw stones and brandished swords, targeting Muslim homes in the Old Grain Market area.
Senior police officials were quickly dispatched to the scene, and a heavy police presence was established to prevent further escalation. Despite the efforts of local authorities to mediate and calm both sides, the area remained on edge, with Sikh community members later gathering at a Gurudwara.
"We have registered a case and arrested three individuals in connection with the earlier dispute over speeding motorcycles. Two others are still at large, and our teams are actively searching for them," said Priyanka Shukla, DCP Zone-1 Bhopal.
Authorities have promised a thorough investigation into the violence and urged the local residents to avoid communal conflict. While the immediate situation has been brought under control, tensions remain high in the area, and the police are working to ensure long-term peace.