4 cops injured, internet suspended in Chomu after violence erupts during anti-encroachment drive

Jaipur, Dec 26: Four policemen were injured in stone-pelting when police removed iron railings erected along a road outside a mosque in Chomu town, about 40 km from Jaipur, early Friday, officials said.

The incident occurred when police moved to dismantle the iron railings using an excavator after objections were raised that the structure was encroaching on the roadway. As the operation began, some miscreants allegedly hurled stones at the excavator and police personnel, triggering tension in the area.

According to police, discussions had been held on Thursday evening between the administration and community members over stones placed on the road outside the mosque. The community had agreed to remove the stones themselves. However, after their removal, iron railings were allegedly installed to create a boundary outside the mosque, leading to fresh objections.

The injured policemen were admitted to hospital, while two to three others sustained minor injuries, police said.

Director General of Police (Law and Order) Sanjay Agarwal said the situation was fully under control. “Four policemen sustained injuries in stone-pelting. Strict action will be taken against those taking law into their hands,” he said.

As tensions escalated, additional police forces were rushed to the spot from nearby police stations, including Chomu, Harmada, Vishwakarma and Daulatpura. Police also fired tear gas shells and used mild force to disperse the crowd.

Deputy Superintendent of Police Chomu, Usha Yadav, said senior officers were present on the spot and additional personnel had been deployed to maintain law and order.

As a precautionary measure, internet services were suspended in Chomu for 24 hours. Police have been conducting flag marches across the town and teams have been formed to identify and arrest those involved in the violence. (Agencies)