• Source:JND
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The family of Ram Gopal Mishra, who was killed amidst stone-pelting and gunfire during idol immersion in UP’s Bahraich, on Tuesday met Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The grieving family, accompanied by local MLA Sureshwar Singh, demanded strict action against those responsible for the brutal killing of 22-year-old Mishra.

Ram Gopal’s wife expressed her anguish, saying, "We will be at peace only when blood is avenged with blood."

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Although no new incidents of violence were reported on Tuesday, tension remains high in Maharajganj. Security forces, including the CRPF, PAC, STF and local police, are patrolling the area to prevent further unrest. Internet services remain suspended to curb the spread of misinformation.

So far, over 30 individuals have been arrested in connection with the violence. Authorities are analysing CCTV footage and videos recorded during the riots to identify more perpetrators.

The situation spiralled out of control on Sunday during the idol immersion procession when stones and gunfire were reported from a building in Maharajganj Bazaar. Ram Gopal Mishra, a resident of Rehua Mansoor village, was killed in the unrest. In response, the authorities halted idol immersion across the district.

Incidents of arson erupted in several areas after Mishra’s death. A motorcycle was set on fire near Steelganj Talab and shops were torched at Hospital Chauraha. Attempts were also made to ignite property in Kazikatra. In light of these developments, Hardi police station in-charge Suresh Kumar Verma and Mahsi outpost officer Shivkumar Saroj were suspended late Sunday night.

On Monday, rumours of the death of another injured individual, Satyawan, who was differently-able, further aggravated the situation.

Maharajganj witnessed large-scale violence as rioters attacked a private hospital, bike showroom, shops and vehicles. In Sadhuwapur village, homes, shops, tractors and motorcycles were torched, forcing residents to flee for their safety. Similar unrest was reported from Nautala and Kabdiyanpurwa Villages, where attempts were made to set properties on fire.

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Preliminary reports estimate that the violence caused damage worth over Rs 2 crore.