Haryana: 4 dead in communal clashes

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) carried out a procession in the Nuh district of Haryana. Rumours had spread that Monu Manesar would also participate in the procession. Monu Manesar is a figure who rose to prominence for his activism with regard to cow vigilantism. He is well recognised on social media. He is also a suspect in the murder and kidnapping of 2 men belonging to the Muslim community. 

The locals in Nuh had opposed his presence in the procession believing that it could potentially trigger volatile reactions in the area. 6 vehicles had passed the area with a “Gau Rakshak” poster on them. This led to speculations that Monu Manesar was seated in one of them. This had subsequently led to a bunch of teenagers pelting stones on the vehicles when the procession reached Nuh. This triggered a series of violent attacks that spread its way onto other districts as well. 

An Imam in sector 57 of Gurugram belonging to the Anjuman Masjid and named Maulana Saad was shot dead in the violence that ensued. 4 people have died in the clashes so far including 2 homeguards Gurusevak and Neeraj. 20 others have sustained grievous injuries. Section 144 has been imposed in Nuh to contain the violence.