Unidentified miscreants pelted stones at a Maharana Pratap Jayanti rally in Uttar Pradesh's Hapur district on Saturday, leaving several participants injured. The incident took place when the rally was passing through a sensitive area, leading to chaos and panic among the attendees.
Incident Details
The rally was organized to commemorate the birth anniversary of the legendary Rajput warrior Maharana Pratap. As the procession moved through the locality, a group of individuals allegedly hurled stones at the participants from nearby rooftops and alleys. Eyewitnesses reported that the attack was sudden and unprovoked, causing injuries to multiple people, including women and children.
Police Response
Upon receiving information, local police rushed to the spot and brought the situation under control. Senior police officials, including the Superintendent of Police, visited the site to assess the damage and ensure medical aid for the injured. The injured were immediately taken to a nearby hospital, where their condition is stated to be stable.
Security has been tightened in the area as a precautionary measure to prevent any further untoward incidents. Additional forces have been deployed, and patrolling has been intensified. The police have launched an investigation to identify and apprehend the culprits involved in the stone-pelting incident.
Political Reactions
The incident has drawn condemnation from political leaders across the spectrum. Local leaders have demanded strict action against the perpetrators and urged the administration to ensure the safety of such religious and cultural processions. The ruling party and opposition have traded barbs over the law and order situation in the state.
Maharana Pratap Jayanti is celebrated with great enthusiasm in many parts of Uttar Pradesh, and the rally in Hapur was part of the festivities. The attack has cast a shadow over the celebrations, with many expressing concerns over the rising incidents of violence during such events.
Authorities are reviewing security arrangements for future processions and have appealed to the public to remain calm and cooperate with the administration in maintaining peace.
