The Hindu : National : 3 killed as clashes erupt in Dhule

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3 killed as clashes erupt in Dhule

Meena Menon

Curfew imposed in Maharashtra town

MUMBAI: Three people were killed in communal clashes at Dhule in north Maharashtra on Sunday. At least 70 people were injured. Police said the riots began in the afternoon. The situation was tense, with violence breaking out in parts of the city.

According to unofficial figures, the death toll is five and 150 people sustained injuries. A number of the injured are said to be in a serious condition.

Government sources confirmed that there were three deaths and injuries to 70 people. Curfew has been imposed in Dhule since 7.30 p.m. Unofficial reports said shoot-at-sight orders were issued.

Among the injured are several policemen including an inspector and an Additional Collector.

State Reserve Police platoons were sent from Jalgaon to control the situation.

According to Manohar Patil, a senior journalist, Muslims had gathered to welcome a corporator Sabir Sheikh, who had returned from Haj. They were taking him round in a procession at the Manohar Theatre-Agra Road junction when they were confronted by some youths from another community. Soon there was stone-throwing between the two groups and the trouble spread to other parts of the city.

Shops and vehicles were burnt in many parts of the city, including the marketplace on the Agra Road, and the situation spun out of control.

The police opened fire in two or three places and it is not known whether those who died were killed in the firing or in the clashes.

Mr. Patil said tension had been brewing in Dhule over the last four days over the hoardings put up by the Hindu Rakshak Samiti, a coalition of right wing organisations. “These hoardings had offensive messages against the Muslim community.” Though there were several complaints to the police, no action was taken, he alleged.

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