Tensions flare in Jodhpur following disrespect for flags

Jodhpur: The city witnessed heightened tensions Saturday following an incident where a man was caught on video removing a religious flag at Ghodon Ka Chowk, a prominent jewellery and bullion trading hub, the previous night.

The incident sparked protests as large crowds gathered at the scene Saturday morning. Police intervened to disperse protesters who later reassembled at the Sojati Gate police chowki, demanding strict action against the perpetrators.

Police have arrested one suspect, identified as a West Bengal native working at a local jewellery shop. The shop owner, also from West Bengal, is absconding and has been accused of harbouring radical views by the Jodhpur Jewellers' Association President, Naveen Soni.

DCP (East) Alok Srivastava said that peace was restored and markets reopened by evening following deployment of additional police forces. The incident prompted local traders to demand mandatory police verification for workers from West Bengal, who form a significant portion of the workforce in the area.

In a separate but related development, police arrested five individuals for placing Israeli flag posters with shoe marks on manhole covers near the Ishaqiya mosque. SHO Manakram Bishnoi confirmed that six persons, including one minor, were involved in this incident that occurred Thursday night.

These incidents have raised concerns about communal harmony in the city, with authorities maintaining strict vigilance to prevent any escalation of tensions. The situation remains under close monitoring as investigations continue into both cases.