A tense situation unfolded late Wednesday night in Hyderabad’s Puranapul area after unidentified individuals allegedly vandalised a temple, triggering violent protests, stone-pelting and arson. The unrest left at least 10 police personnel, including an inspector and several constables, injured, while multiple vehicles were damaged. Heavy police deployment has since been made to prevent further escalation.
According to police officials, the vandalism at the temple was noticed late in the evening, following which information quickly spread in the locality. Concerned residents gathered near the site, and the situation soon spiralled into chaos as angry groups resorted to sloganeering, stone-pelting and setting vehicles on fire.
Clashes Between Two Communities
Police said that the agitation intensified after members of one community allegedly attacked a nearby religious site belonging to another community, damaged graves and vandalised a religious flag. As tensions escalated, groups from both sides came face to face, leading to clashes. A two-wheeler was set ablaze and several other vehicles were damaged, bringing traffic to a standstill at a busy intersection near the Musi river.
Security forces rushed to the spot and used crowd-control measures to restore order. Senior police officers assured residents of strict action against those responsible for the violence and inspected the damaged idol at the temple. Additional police and paramilitary forces have been deployed in and around Puranapul to maintain law and order.
Owaisi Appeals for Calm
On Thursday morning, AIMIM president and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi visited the affected area to assess the situation. He interacted with local residents and police officials and appealed for peace and cooperation.
“Maintaining communal harmony is essential. The police are handling the situation, and people should remain calm,” Owaisi said.
Police Urge Public Not to Spread Rumours
Police officials confirmed that an investigation is underway to identify those behind the temple vandalism and subsequent violence. Authorities stressed that the situation is now under control and appealed to the public not to believe or circulate rumours that could inflame tensions further.
Political Reactions Emerge
The incident has taken a political turn, with the Telangana BJP targeting the Congress-led state government over law and order. The party shared videos of the damaged temple on social media, accusing the government of failing to protect religious sites. BJP leaders alleged that the vandalism was part of a “planned and organised” attack on Hindu temples.
Telangana BJP president N. Ramchander Rao also visited the site and criticised the state government, alleging administrative inaction and appeasement politics. He said the BJP would continue to stand firm in defence of temples and religious harmony.
Meanwhile, the state administration has reiterated that strict action will be taken against those found guilty, regardless of affiliation, and that peace and public safety remain the top priority.
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