4 July 2024: A fact-finding team from the Association for Protection of Civil Rights (APCR) has reported that normalcy is returning to the Soorsagar area of Jodhpur district in Rajasthan, following violent clashes on June 21. The violence involved members of the Muslim and Valmiki communities who engaged in stone-pelting and brick-throwing, which subsequently escalated into acts of arson. A shop and a tractor were set ablaze during the conflict.
The situation worsened when the mob attacked police officers attempting to restore order, resulting in injuries to approximately 10-15 officers. Eyewitnesses provided harrowing testimonies of the violence. Tabassum Bano reported that individuals chanting “Jai Sri Ram” attempted to attack with deadly weapons, while another local described a mob of 25 people invading her home, looting, and vandalizing it in the presence of police. The attackers also assaulted her and her family, causing serious injuries.
Another Muslim woman recounted how a mob of 15-20 individuals broke into her home, shouting “Jai Sri Ram,” and attacked her and her family members with sticks, swords, and iron rods. Her son, Shakeel, sustained severe head injuries and broken bones, while other male family members were also seriously injured. They are currently receiving treatment at Mahatma Gandhi Hospital.
In response to the violence, the police have arrested at least 53 individuals, including seven minors. FIRs have been filed by both Hindu society and the Muslim woman whose truck was destroyed.
The APCR delegation visited the affected area on June 27 and observed that the situation had stabilized. Police forces remain deployed to ensure security and prevent further incidents. Local residents highlighted that despite the recent violence, the communities have historically shared harmonious and interdependent relationships through their businesses.
