Dahod Tribal Day Celebrations Turn Tense as Stone-Pelting Triggers Tear Gas Shelling

Tension erupted in Dahod on Sunday during World Tribal Day celebrations after a stone-pelting incident broke out near Muvaliya Crossroads on Godhra Road.

According to police, a dispute was underway over the use of DJ music during a tribal cultural rally when some people allegedly began pelting stones. Police responded by firing tear gas shells to bring the situation under control.

Several vehicles were reportedly damaged during the incident. Following the clashes, additional security personnel were deployed in the area, which was subsequently turned into a heavily guarded zone.

Police allege AAP leaders blocked road

According to the police version, several cultural rallies were organised across Dahod district on August 9 as part of World Tribal Day celebrations. The rallies were organised by tribal community leaders after obtaining the required permissions.

The main rally proceeded along designated routes on Godhra Road and Jhalod Road. A prayer ceremony was held around noon, following which the procession continued along its scheduled route.

Police said that around 2 p.m., when the rally had completed roughly half of its route, some Aam Aadmi Party leaders and other people allegedly arrived near Muvaliya Crossroads with private vehicles and DJ equipment and blocked the road.

The police claimed that the blockade resulted in ambulances and government buses getting stuck.

Repeated attempts to clear road

Police officials said they repeatedly appealed to those present to clear the road and maintain the dignity of the tribal procession. Senior officials were also called to the spot after the initial attempts to resolve the situation failed.

According to police, officers tried to persuade the group for around 30 to 45 minutes, but the situation allegedly escalated and people began creating a disturbance.

Police subsequently dispersed the crowd and took action according to established procedures.

CCTV and body-camera footage to be examined

Police said the entire incident was recorded through mobile phones, body-worn cameras and CCTV cameras installed at different locations.

Officials said the footage, along with reports from personnel deployed at the scene, will be examined before further legal action is taken against those found responsible.

Police added that the main tribal cultural rally continued peacefully along its designated route, with participants celebrating with traditional drums and music.

According to the police, no injuries have been reported so far. However, authorities said a detailed examination of video recordings, CCTV footage and reports from personnel at the scene could reveal additional details.