Law Kumar Mishra
Patna, February 16
Jharkhand government banned all types of internet services in Palamu district, 150 kms from the Jharkhand capital Ranchi following communal violence at Panki town.
According to an order issued by Rajeev Arun Ekka, Principal Secretary (home) of Jharkhand, “All types of internet services will remain suspended in Palamun district till February 19.”
The order was issued following disturbances in Panki over the Shiv Baarat procession on Mahashivaratri. Ekka said the step was taken to prevent use of internet services by the miscreants and others to spread rumour, false information that could lead to disturbances of law and order in the State.
District administration today put restrictions on religious ceremonies, only five people would perform Shivratri pujas at the temple and four would be allowed to attend Friday prayers at local mosque.
Organisers of the Shiv Baarat had put an welcome arche at Masjid Chauk that was opposed by the local residents. Locals uprooted welcome arche that led to clash with the members of another community. In the incident,15 people including a Sub Divisional Police officer were injured.
Deputy Commissioner E Dudu claimed 13 people have been arrested. They include Nehal Ansari, husband of Panki village head. Niranjan Singh, organiser of the Shiv Baarat Samiti claimed he too was hit on head by the stones thrown from a religious place at Rahebir Shiv Mandir.
Arsonists set on fire two four wheelers, two motor cycles, two shops also. Deputy Commissioner imposed prohibitory orders restricting assembly of five or more persons.
In Deoghar too, tension prevailed over an order issued by the Sub Divisional Magistrate, Deepankar Roy disallowing movement of Shiv Baarat of Baidyanath deity in the town. The order says restrictions has been imposed to prevent tension in the town.
Shiv Baarat, a traditional religious programme has been organised after three years of Corona restrictions.
BJP Lok Sabha member Nishikant Dubey who visited the temple this morning protested against the order of the administration and said the procession would cover the entire town. He alleged the UPA government was following appeasement policy towards a section of the society and putting curbs on public display of Hindu festivals. He threatened to launch indefinite fast to force the administration to allow uninterrupted movement of the procession.
