Violent Clash During Procession in Giridih Leaves 20 Injured; Rape Accused Arrested in Palamu

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Ranchi, Jharkhand: A violent clash broke out between two groups during a Kartik Purnima procession in Giridih district on Wednesday, leaving at least 20 people injured. In a separate incident in Palamu district, a 25-year-old man was arrested for allegedly raping a 43-year-old woman.

Violence Erupts During Religious Procession in Giridih
The incident occurred in the Tarathand police station area of Giridih when a minor dispute during the procession quickly escalated into a full-scale clash. According to eyewitnesses, the tension originated on Tuesday evening during the Tulsi Vivah celebrations while the wedding procession was passing through the village. On Wednesday morning, when the Kartik Purnima procession approached Kali Mandir, members of the opposing group attempted to stop the procession. Arguments escalated, and when some villagers reportedly started filming the incident, the situation spiraled further.

Stone-pelting and baton clashes ensued, creating chaos throughout the village. Police from Tarathand station reached the scene promptly, but additional forces from Gandey, Ahilyapur, and nearby stations were deployed to control the situation. The Deputy Commissioner Ramnivas Yadav, Superintendent of Police Dr. Bimal Kumar, and SDPO Jitwahan Uraon also arrived to manage and calm the unrest.

Authorities reported that the injured are receiving treatment at local health centers, while the seriously wounded were referred to Giridih Sadar Hospital. A large police presence remains deployed in the village as a precaution, and the administration continues to monitor the situation closely.

Strict Action Promised
Superintendent of Police Dr. Bimal Kumar stated, “Initial investigation indicates the clash stemmed from a personal dispute between two individuals. Those found violating law and order will face strict action.” Officials confirmed that the situation is currently under control, though tension remains in the area.

Rape Accused Arrested in Palamu
In a separate case in Palamu district, a 25-year-old man was arrested on Wednesday for allegedly raping a 43-year-old woman while she was grazing goats in a field on Tuesday.

Sonu Kumar Chaudhary, in-charge of Hussainabad police station, said, “The accused allegedly raped the woman twice – first in the field and then by dragging her into nearby bushes.” The police have presented the accused before the court, which sent him to jail for 14 days. The victim’s medical report is expected today, and a charge sheet will be filed shortly in court against the accused.