Satara: Deadly Communal Clash Erupts Over Social Media Post - One Fatality, Ten Injured, 25 Arrested

 In a grim incident that unfolded in a village in Maharashtra's Satara district, one person lost their life, and ten others sustained injuries during clashes fueled by an "objectionable" social media post. 

This tragic event occurred in Pusesawali village, situated in Khatao tehsil, approximately 150 kilometers from Pune. The violence erupted late on a Sunday night, leading to tensions between two communities.

Swift Police Action and Arrests

The Satara police acted swiftly in response to the escalating violence, apprehending 25 individuals in total. Among them were two individuals arrested for their involvement in derogatory social media posts, while the remaining 23 were detained in connection with charges of murder, rioting, and disruptions to public order.

Internet Services Suspended and Precautionary Measures Taken

In response to the unrest, authorities took the precautionary step of suspending internet services across the district until Tuesday midnight. Additionally, Section 144 was enforced to maintain public safety. Jitendra Dudi, Satara district collector, emphasized the need for these measures as a means to prevent further escalation.

Eyewitness Accounts of Chaos

Eyewitnesses on the scene described a chaotic and disturbing scene as a mob of approximately one thousand people went on a rampage, targeting homes, businesses, and street vendors in a specific area. This violence resulted in fires and extensive damage to property.

Social Media Post Sparks Conflict

While the police confirmed that the clashes were initiated by an objectionable social media post, they have chosen not to disclose the specific content of the post, citing the sensitive nature of the case.

Assurance from Authorities

Superintendent of Police Sameer Shaikh assured the public that the situation was under control and urged citizens not to be swayed by rumors. Satara Member of Parliament (MP) Shriniwas Patil also appealed for peace, expressing his condolences and calling the incident sad and unfortunate.

Underlying Causes and Legal Actions

According to Shaikh, the clashes were sparked by an objectionable post and comments made by two youths from one community, leading to retaliation and violence from another community. The police have initiated two cases under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including charges related to promoting enmity between communities, as well as rioting and damage to public property.

Stabilization of the Situation

Satara district collector Jitendra Dudi reported that the situation had stabilized in the area following the riots but emphasized the importance of refraining from sharing objectionable posts. He noted that the district administration had suspended internet services as a preventive measure.

Security Measures and Appeal for Peace

Kolhapur Special IG Sunil Phulari appealed to citizens for peace and urged them to avoid sharing objectionable content. Additional security measures were implemented to prevent further violence, and authorities closely monitored the situation to ensure the safety of the public.