Prophet row rocks Ranchi: 2 dead, people warned not to venture out day after violent protests
India Today
The violent protests in Ranchi against controversial remarks on the Prophet left two dead. The administration warned people not to venture out of their homes, amid curfew and mobile internet shutdown.
An uneasy calm prevailed in Jharkhand’s Ranchi on Saturday, less than 24 hours after a protest against suspended BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma’s inflammatory remarks on Prophet Mohammad turned violent.
Streets were deserted as prohibitory orders remained in force in parts of the city, and internet services were suspended. Announcements were being made through the public address system in all localities, warning citizens not to venture out, otherwise they would be taken into custody.
No violent incident has been reported in Ranchi after irate protesters swept through parts of the city on Friday, pelting stones and committing arson. Several policemen were injured in the melee. Police had to resort to firing in the air as well as baton-charge to disperse the mob.
Many shops and establishments had remained shut in Ranchi since Friday morning in protest against the remarks by Nupur Sharma and now expelled Delhi BJP media in-charge Naveen Jindal.
The protests, one of many reported in other cities across the country, broke out after Friday prayers. Demonstrators bearing placards and shouting slogans demanded the BJP leader’s arrest for her controversial remarks on Prophet Mohammad.
#WATCH | Jharkhand: Protest over the controversial remarks by suspended BJP leader Nupur Sharma turned violent in Ranchi. Vehicles were torched and vandalised and stone-pelting occurred. Injuries reported. pic.twitter.com/Z5FIndjZzf
