Chomu Stone-Pelting Violence Brought Under Control: Over 100 Detained, Internet Services Still Suspended

Chomu, Jaipur: Peace has been restored in Chomu town near Jaipur following a violent clash over encroachment removal and a railing dispute near a religious site. Police, with the help of drones, identified bricks and stones stockpiled on rooftops and conducted raids, detaining 125 rioters. Mobile internet services remain suspended to prevent the spread of rumors, while local MLAs Amin Kagzi and Shikha Barala have appealed for calm.

Stone-Pelters Confront Police

The unrest erupted when authorities removed stones near a religious site, leading to clashes between community members and police. Early Thursday morning, some rioters attacked police officers, hurling stones, bricks, and glass bottles, injuring nine personnel. By 7 AM, a large contingent of police had arrived from Jaipur, including Special Police Commissioner Rahul Prakash, Additional Police Commissioner Dr. Rajiv Pachar, and DCP West Hanuman Prasad.

Despite repeated appeals to surrender, none of the stone-pelters complied. Using CCTV footage, police identified the culprits and launched targeted raids on their homes.

Drones Help Police Identify Stockpiles

During the night, rioters had placed stones, bricks, and broken glass on rooftops, posing a major threat to law enforcement. Police drones scanned the area and identified hoards on multiple rooftops. Subsequent house raids resulted in 125 individuals being taken into custody. Authorities have assured strict legal action against those found guilty.

Community Engagement for Peace

Police called senior community members to the station for talks, urging them to ensure local residents cooperated and refrained from further violence. MLAs Shikha Barala and Amin Kagzi joined the efforts, appealing for peace and assisting the police in maintaining calm.

Background of the Dispute

The encroachment removal campaign has been ongoing in Chomu for the past month and a half, aimed at clearing pathways for vehicles and reducing traffic congestion. Stones placed near a religious site were classified as encroachment. Authorities coordinated with community leaders before removing the stones on Thursday afternoon.

Later, some residents attempted to install iron railings, defying police advice. Negotiations between the administration and community elders initially prevented escalation, but rioters eventually attacked police when removal work resumed around 3 AM Thursday.

Police Response and Restoration of Order

The situation escalated to stone-pelting, baton charges, and tear gas deployment. While police initially had to retreat, reinforcements arrived and successfully dispersed the rioters. Senior officials visited the site early Friday morning and oversaw operations to ensure peace. Markets remained closed due to the unrest, with reopening expected later in the day.