Communal clash in Bareilly over the use of loudspeakers for ‘azaan’

Bareilly: Communal tension gripped UP’s Bareilly town after Hindus, Muslims clashed over the use of loudspeakers for ‘azaan’ or call for namaz in a mosque.

According to Hindustan Times report, on Friday afternoon, a group of men from the Hindu community quarreled with the Muslims over the use of loudspeakers at the mosque in Hafizganj area.

Tension was simmering in the area since last week after some Hindus argued with the use of loudspeakers for ‘azaan,’ claimed sources.

The situation turned violent after more than 300 men from both groups indulged in stone-pelting and firing in which at least 20 people were injured, sources said.

“The first team was dispatched from the local police station as soon as we came to know about the incident. Later, additional forces were sent to control the situation,” superintendent of police (rural) Yamuna Prasad said.

Reports of clashes from neighbouring areas continued to pour in till late in the evening.

Local police initiated the process of identification of the culprits involved in the clash. “Our teams are investigating the matter and those who indulged in violence will soon be behind bars,” the SP said.