Stone-pelting between communities in Kalana village of Sanand, police book rioting cases

Tension flared up in Kalana village of Sanand taluka in Ahmedabad district after a group clash broke out between members of two communities, leading to stone-pelting and injuries, police said on Monday.

According to the Ahmedabad (Rural) Police, the violence was triggered by a long-standing rivalry dating back nearly a year, which resurfaced following a fresh altercation late on Monday night and continued into Tuesday. Preliminary investigations suggest that the immediate provocation involved a dispute between youths, allegedly sparked when some youngsters riding a motorcycle were confronted over allegedly “staring”, escalating into a heated argument.

Police said the situation quickly deteriorated, with both groups comprising around 30 to 35 people each, resorting to stone-pelting. The clash also had links to social media posts, with officials indicating that simmering resentment over online posts, perceived dominance and rivalry among youths had contributed to the flare-up.

As the situation worsened, Ahmedabad (Rural) Superintendent of Police Omprakash Jat, along with senior officers, including the Deputy Superintendent of Police and Police Inspector, rushed to the spot to bring the situation under control. An adequate police force was deployed in the village to prevent any further escalation.

“The incident is the result of previous enmity between the two groups. We have registered cross-complaints from both sides under sections related to rioting and causing injuries, and further legal action is underway,” SP Jat said.

Police have begun identifying suspects using video footage of the incident and have initiated searches for around 30 individuals believed to be involved. Questioning of residents, including women, has also started as part of the investigation, officials said.

The area falls under the jurisdiction of the Sanand Police Station. Police said the situation is currently under control, though security has been tightened as a precaution.