Telangana: Communal tension erupts over rape attempt on tribal woman
Communal tensions flared in Telangana's Asifabad district on Wednesday following a protest over an attempted rape of a tribal woman. Video from Jainoor town revealed grey smoke billowing from burning shops and homes set ablaze by the crowd. Authorities responded by strengthening police force deployed on the ground. A curfew was also enforced on Wednesday, according to a report by news agency PTI.
Curfew imposed, internet services suspended amid unrest
Reports said, local authorities imposed a curfew and issued prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). Internet services were also suspended as a precautionary measure against the spread of rumors and fake news. A senior police official confirmed that the situation is now under control with additional forces deployed and the Rapid Action Force (RAF) called in to maintain order.
Accused arrested
According to reports, the victim was found unconscious on the road after the driver allegedly tried to kill her by striking her with a stick. She is currently receiving treatment at a hospital in Hyderabad. After regaining consciousness, she reported the incident to the police. The accused has been arrested and charged with sexual assault, attempted murder, and relevant sections of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
Protests escalate into violence
Following the incident, tribal organizations called for a bandh which saw large participation from tribal members. The protests escalated into violence due to the accused being from a different community. Agitated youth set shops and commercial establishments on fire and pelted stones at a religious site, leading to clashes between the two communities. Officials reported further arson, stone-pelting, and property damage after protesters targeted properties belonging to the other community and retaliation ensued.
Police engage with community elders
Police have engaged in discussions with community elders to calm the situation. Special teams have been formed and investigations into the incidents of arson and violence are underway to identify the offenders. The police have urged both communities to exercise restraint. Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar expressed his disturbance over the incident on X, assuring swift action against perpetrators and restoration of law and order.
Political leaders react to the incident
AIMIM president and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi also expressed concern over the communal disturbances in Jainoor. He has spoken to Telangana DGP regarding the situation and was assured that it is being monitored with additional forces being sent. Meanwhile, Telangana BJP MLA Raja Singh accused Owaisi of staying silent about the Congress-led Telangana government's handling of crimes against women. Separately, tribal rights organizations staged a protest demanding capital punishment for the accused.
