Jammu. 43 people have been detained in connection with the alleged vandalism of a Shiva temple in Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir. Officials gave this information on Thursday. Officials said that information about the vandalism in the place of worship located in the village of Dharmari area was received on Saturday evening, after which tension prevailed in the area and angry people protested.
After the picture and video of the vandalism went viral on social media, locals and Hindu organizations protested at many places in Jammu division and a shutdown was observed in Reasi and Katra cities. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mohita Sharma told PTI-Bhasha, “A total of 43 people, including 24 suspects, have been detained by the police in the incident of vandalism at a religious place in Dharmari area of Arnas.” He said that the detained people are being questioned and further investigation is going on in the case.
The SSP appealed to the people of Reasi to maintain restraint and maintain peace and communal harmony. He said that the culprits of the incident will be brought before the public soon. The officer said that the police have registered an FIR under relevant sections in the case and a special investigation team has been formed under the leadership of Deputy Superintendent of Police to identify and arrest the culprits. The officer said that the SIT is investigating various angles and he appealed to the people to maintain law and order.
A bandh was observed in Reasi city and surrounding areas on Monday against the incident and many youths protested by burning tyres on the roads.