Chaos Erupts in Shahjahanpur: 200 Booked After Violent Protests Rock City

Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh – A wave of intense unrest swept through Shahjahanpur recently, culminating in a violent protest that left a trail of destruction and prompted a massive police response. Authorities have now registered a case against approximately 200 unidentified individuals suspected of involvement in the widespread agitation, which saw acts of arson, stone-pelting, and significant damage to both public and private property.

The city was gripped by tension following reports of an alleged incident of disrespect towards a religious scripture/figure – a claim that rapidly fueled public anger and mobilization.

What began as a gathering of protestors soon spiraled out of control, transforming into a volatile mob. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as protestors, numbering in the hundreds, engaged in destructive acts across several localities.

Vehicles were set ablaze, including motorcycles and cars, sending plumes of thick smoke into the sky.

Shops and establishments bore the brunt of the mob's fury, with windows shattered and goods vandalized. Stone-pelting became rampant, targeting police personnel and structures, leading to minor injuries among the forces attempting to quell the disturbance. The sheer scale and intensity of the violence overwhelmed local law enforcement for a period.

Responding to the escalating crisis, a heavy contingent of police and paramilitary forces was rapidly deployed to the affected areas.

Senior district officials, including the District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police, arrived on the scene to personally monitor the situation and direct operations. Lathicharge was reportedly used to disperse the unruly crowd, and tear gas shells were deployed as a last resort to bring the situation under control.

The police have confirmed that a First Information Report (FIR) has been lodged under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including charges related to rioting, arson, unlawful assembly, mischief, and assault on public servants.

While no specific arrests have been publicly announced yet, investigations are in full swing. Law enforcement agencies are meticulously scrutinizing CCTV footage from the affected areas and collecting statements from eyewitnesses to identify the perpetrators of the violence.

District authorities have appealed for calm and urged citizens to refrain from spreading rumors, emphasizing that strict action will be taken against anyone attempting to disturb communal harmony or incite further violence.

Security remains tight across Shahjahanpur, with additional forces stationed at sensitive points to prevent any resurgence of unrest. The incident serves as a stark reminder of how quickly public grievances can escalate into destructive chaos, demanding swift and firm action to uphold law and order.