Man shot dead in Indian UP amid communal dispute over playing music during religious procession

A 22-year-old man in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh was shot dead on Sunday (October 13) during a communal clash over playing music during a procession.

According to a report by news agency PTI, the incident took place in Mansoor village in Bahraich region of the state. A procession passed through the village’s Mahrajganj Bazaar carrying an idol of Goddess Durga for immersion.

According to the report, the victim who was walking with the procession was shot.

The 22-year-old man was taken to a hospital where he died during treatment, one of his family members told the news agency. The report also said that more than half a dozen people were injured by stone pelting and gunfire.

Police were deployed in Mansoor village.

In view of the incident, similar processions in Fakharpur city and some other places in the state were canceled.

Despite the communal tension, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that idol immersion (of Goddess Durga) must continue. “Communicate with religious organizations and ensure that idol immersion is done on time,” Prime Minister Yogi directed the Bahraich government.

He also directed the police to deploy manpower at the diving sites.

(With contributions from agencies)