2 killed in communal clashes in Aurangabad

Two person were killed and over 50 injured in Aurangabad town of Maharashtra following a communal flare-up over a trivial issue.

The mob set over 50 shops and more than 100 vehicles on fire. There were two rounds of violence – Friday evening and Saturday morning.

“As of now the situation is under control,” Aurangabad Police Commissioner Milind Bharambe said.

“It was a small issue, trivial issue…that escalated. There were rumours and the tension spread. Some anti-social elements torched shops and vehicles,” Bharambe said.

The police had to baton charge, fire tear gas shells and plastic bullets to control the situation.

Units of the Indian Reserve Batallion (IRB) and companies of the State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) have been deployed in Aurangabad and neighbouring areas.

Companies of SRPF have also been rushed from the neighbouring districts of Beed and Jalna.

Section 144 of the CrPC – that prohibits assembly of more than four people – have been imposed in parts of the city.

The most affected areas are Shahganj, Angribaug and Nawabpura area.

Reports stated that clashes broke out over the issue of disconnecting illegal water connection.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who also holds the Home portfolio, has been briefed about the incident.

Aurangabad is also known as the "Tourism Capital of Maharashtra" for the famous Ajanta and Ellora Caves, both World Heritage Sites and Bibi Ka Maqbara, that resembles the Taj Mahal.