Gujarat: 50 detained after stone-pelting incident over social media post in Vadodara

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A communal flare-up was reported in Vadodara’s Junigarhi area late Friday night after an AI-generated social media post allegedly targeting a Muslim place of worship went viral. The post, which was shared by a Hindu youth, led to protests, stone-pelting, and vandalism in the locality.

According to officials, several vehicles and shops were damaged during the unrest. A large group from the minority community gathered outside the City Police Station, blocked the road, and demanded strict action against the youth responsible for the objectionable post.

“An objectionable post appeared on social media, prompting people to protest near the City Police Station (last night). During this time, stone-pelting also occurred in the Junigarhi area. Police took immediate action and brought the situation under control,” said Vadodara DCP Andrew Macwan while briefing reporters.

The officer further added, “The situation is overall peaceful and under control. Police are monitoring the situation and are filing an FIR. Police appeal to the public not to pay attention to any rumours. We will take the strictest possible action.”

Authorities confirmed that more than 50 individuals have been detained in connection with the incident. “We responded immediately to bring the situation under control. Fifty individuals have been detained, and a thorough investigation is underway to ensure appropriate action,” DCP Macwan told ANI.

Police said that while dispersing after registering their protest, a section of the crowd allegedly targeted a Navratri pandal, vandalised parked vehicles, and resorted to stone-pelting in the area. Civilians as well as policemen sustained injuries in the clash. Two separate FIRs have been registered so far.

“There will be police patrolling in Vadodara city so that everyone can celebrate the upcoming festivals peacefully. On social media, an objectionable post was placed, due to which people protested. The injured include civilians and police,” DCP Macwan said, appealing for calm.

A further investigation into the incident is in progress. Police officials maintained that they are keeping a close watch to prevent the spread of rumours and escalation of tensions.

This incident comes a week after stone-pelting was also reported in Karnataka’s Maddur town on September 8, when protests erupted during a Ganpati procession. Stones were allegedly hurled as the procession passed near a mosque, prompting police to resort to a mild lathi-charge. At least 21 people were arrested in connection with the violence.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, reacting to that episode, had stated, “When the procession passed near the mosque, there was a minor clash. The police had warned the people in the procession, telling them not to stay there for too long. At that time, some stone-pelting took place...When the procession passed in front of the mosque, a clash broke out. A mild lathi-charge was carried out. When people gathered in groups to create trouble, a mild lathi-charge was used.”

The CM also made it clear that strict legal action would follow. “Whoever is guilty, legal action will be taken against them. It is the BJP leaders who are indulging in provocation. The police have not committed any mistake. If at all there is any mistake, action will be taken,” he said.

With inputs from ANI