Budgam Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) following a clash between two rival Shia groups during a Muharram procession in the Hardpanzoo area of Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district. The incident occurred on Sunday, June 28, 2026, and involved supporters of former minister Imran Ansari, who leads the Jammu and Kashmir Shia Association, and followers of Maulana Masroor Abbas Ansari.
Details of the Incident
The scuffle broke out in the Hardpanzoo locality during a Muharram procession, a period of mourning observed by Shia Muslims. According to police, both groups accused each other of instigating the violence. Budgam Police confirmed via an official post on X (formerly Twitter) that an FIR has been lodged and a fair, impartial, and evidence-based investigation is underway. The police statement read, "Budgam Police has registered an FIR in connection with an incident of scuffle between groups of Shia community at Hardpanzoo. A fair, impartial and evidence-based investigation is underway."
Police Appeal for Peace
In a subsequent update, police urged the public to refrain from spreading rumors or unverified information. "Anyone found involved, irrespective of affiliation, will face strict legal action as per law. The public is requested not to spread rumors or unverified information. Maintain peace, communal harmony, and rely only on official updates," the police stated. The authorities have emphasized the importance of maintaining communal harmony and have called for calm in the region.
Background of the Groups
The Jammu and Kashmir Shia Association, led by Imran Ansari, a former minister in the state government, is a prominent Shia organization in the region. Maulana Masroor Abbas Ansari leads a separate faction within the Shia community. The clash highlights underlying tensions between these groups, which have occasionally surfaced during religious processions and events. Both sides have exchanged accusations, but police have not yet named any specific individuals as responsible for the violence.
Investigation and Legal Action
The FIR has been registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and other applicable laws. Budgam Police have assured that the investigation will be conducted without bias and will rely on evidence collected from the scene and witness testimonies. The police have also deployed additional forces in the Hardpanzoo area to prevent any further escalation. No arrests have been reported as of Monday, June 29, 2026.
Community Response
Local community leaders have appealed for peace and urged both groups to resolve their differences through dialogue. The incident has drawn attention to the need for greater inter-community harmony, especially during sensitive religious periods like Muharram. The police have urged residents to cooperate with the investigation and report any suspicious activity.
