Aurangabad violence: Section 144 imposed, hundreds of shops and vehicles gutted

Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India

A mob set fire to at least 40 shops and 110 vehicles over a minor argument in Maharashtrá's Aurangabad.

At least one person was reportedly killed from a bullet injury and 40 others were injured in the violence. Two people are said to be in a critical condition.

Clashes ensued between 2 groups after illegal water connection to a ‘religious place’ was reportedly disconnected. Several parts city witnessed youths from two groups taking to streets and attacking each other with some pelting stones. Several vehicles were also burnt.

Various footages of the clashes are being shared on social media platforms. The violence has reportedly left at least 10 policemen injured.

Appealing for peace, Aurangabad CP Milind Bharambe said: “I appeal to the citizens to maintain peace, do not take law into your own hands. If one group is pelting stones, the other group is requested to keep calm not respond in kind, the police are doing its duty. Section 144 of the CrPC has been imposed, if a group of people are found to be breaking the curfew we will take strict action against them.”

Scores of vehicles were damaged and torched along with at least 40 shops in Shahgunj and Chelipura area. Reports say that a 17-year old succumbed to bullet injuries at MGM hospital. He was a resident of Rengtipura. At least four policemen were also injured in the incident. 

The local police had to resort to tear gas shells to control the mob.