SHO injured as clash erupts during Chehlum procession in Patna

Photo: IANS

Tension gripped Patna's Khajekalan area after a dispute broke out during a Chehlum procession on Wednesday night, leaving the local Station House Officer (SHO) injured, police said on Thursday.

The incident occurred when police intervened to stop the procession, which was allegedly being taken out without prior permission from the district administration. A police team reached the area after receiving information about the procession and asked the organisers to comply with the prescribed regulations.

According to officials, some participants objected to the police intervention, leading to a heated exchange. The situation soon escalated into pushing and scuffling between two groups.

Khajekalan SHO Vidyanand Verma sustained a head injury while police personnel were attempting to control the situation and prevent the dispute from escalating. He was taken to a nearby hospital, where he received first aid and was subsequently discharged. Doctors said his condition was stable and that he was out of danger.

Following the incident, additional police personnel were deployed in the locality. Police used mild force to disperse the gathering and restore normalcy. Security was also tightened at key intersections and other sensitive points to prevent any further disturbance or the spread of rumours.

Police officials reiterated that prior permission from the district administration is mandatory for organising religious processions and other public events. They said appropriate legal action could be taken if such events are conducted without the required approval.

An investigation into the incident is underway. Police are examining CCTV footage, mobile phone recordings and other available evidence to identify those allegedly involved in the disturbance, obstruction of public servants and disruption of law and order.

Officials said further action would be taken based on the findings of the investigation.