Stone-Pelting at Hindu Family’s House in Songadh Over Navratri Social Media Post; 10 Nabbed

Songadh: Tapi district police have arrested nine people and detained a minor in connection with a stone-pelting incident at a man’s house in Songadh on October 20, following a dispute over comments posted on Instagram. The incident triggered protests by Hindu organisations, which demanded the immediate arrest of those involved.

According to police, the incident occurred after a video related to the Navratri festival was posted on a Hindu organisation’s social media account. A young man from the minority community allegedly posted an objectionable comment under the video. In response, Gaurav Chaudhary, who lives near Muslim Faliya in Junagam (Old Village), Songadh, also posted a controversial comment, triggering resentment.

Subsequently, a mob of around 20 to 25 people allegedly gathered outside Chaudhary’s house and pelted it with stones. Police rushed to the spot after receiving information about the incident and dispersed the crowd.

Considering the seriousness of the situation, senior police officials, including the Tapi district superintendent of police, reached the area. Police initiated action against those allegedly involved in the stone-pelting and began the process of registering a case under relevant legal provisions.

Hindu organisations demand strict action

Following the incident, leaders and members of Hindu organisations gathered outside the Songadh police station and demanded the immediate identification and arrest of the accused based on video footage.

Organisation leader Nilesh Chandrat called for strict action against those involved, including an investigation into their employment, businesses and alleged illegal encroachments, followed by demolition action where legally warranted.

The organisations initially announced an indefinite shutdown in Songadh from Wednesday. However, they withdrew the call after police assured them that strict action would be taken against those responsible.

Police appeal to residents to avoid rumours

Deputy Superintendent of Police Ishwar Parmar said the stone-pelting followed resentment over comments posted on social media on October 20. Police teams reached the scene promptly and brought the situation under control, he said.

The police said the law and order situation in Songadh was normal and peaceful. The Tapi district police appealed to residents not to believe or circulate unverified information and rumours on social media or through other channels, urging them to maintain peace. DeshGujarat