The trouble began late Thursday night following an alleged assault on a youth, which triggered tensions between two groups. By Friday afternoon, the situation deteriorated rapidly when miscreants set a shop on fire and torched a bus. This was followed by intense stone-pelting between rival groups, during which a youth sustained injuries.
According to police officials, CCTV footage from the area shows stone-pelting near a temple, which further aggravated tensions. As violence spread, mobs targeted public transport vehicles, vandalising 13 buses and damaging at least 10 cars. More than six houses were also reported damaged in the unrest.
The situation escalated further on Friday when workers of Hindu organisations, including the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal, laid siege to the Tarana police station. Protesters raised slogans and demanded strict action against the accused, including public parading and demolition of their houses. Given the volatility of the situation, the district administration ordered the closure of markets in Tarana as a precautionary measure.
A heavy police force was deployed across sensitive areas to prevent further flare-ups. Senior officials said additional personnel were called in to maintain law and order, and flag marches were conducted in vulnerable localities. Friday prayers were held under tight security arrangements. In the Nai Bakhal area, incidents of shop vandalism were reported even as police personnel remained deployed nearby.
Police officials said arrests were made based on preliminary investigations, CCTV footage and eyewitness accounts. “Strict action will be taken against all those involved in violence, arson and damage to property,” an official said, adding that more arrests were likely as the investigation progresses.
Appealing for calm, the district administration urged residents not to believe rumours and cooperate with law enforcement agencies. Security has been tightened, and the situation is being closely monitored.
Reacting to the incident in Jabalpur, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said the state government would not tolerate any lapse in maintaining law and order. “Our government is known for good governance. Wherever there is administrative laxity, we take firm action. Madhya Pradesh is an island of peace,” he said.
While no further incidents were reported late Friday, the area remains tense, with police maintaining a strong presence to prevent any fresh unrest.
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