UJJAIN, Madhya Pradesh – Parts of Ujjain, a city in Madhya Pradesh, experienced civil unrest on the evening of May 15, 2024, marked by an incident of stone-pelting, which subsequently led to clashes between groups and intervention by law enforcement using tear gas. The situation necessitated a significant deployment of police personnel and resulted in injuries to individuals and damage to property.

According to preliminary reports from local authorities, the disturbance originated in the Freeganj area around 7:30 PM, escalating from an unspecified dispute between two groups. Eyewitnesses described a sudden outbreak of stone-pelting, which quickly spread, causing panic among residents and commuters. Police forces were dispatched to the scene promptly to contain the situation and restore order.

Upon arrival, security personnel encountered a volatile crowd engaged in further confrontations. To disperse the gatherings and prevent further escalation, the Ujjain Police employed tear gas. This action was followed by further clashes between some individuals and the police, as efforts intensified to clear the area and ensure public safety. Additional police units, including the Rapid Action Force (RAF), were mobilized and deployed across sensitive pockets of the city to maintain vigilance and prevent any recurrence of violence.

Key details from the incident include:

  • Injuries: At least seven individuals, including two police personnel, sustained minor injuries during the stone-pelting and subsequent clashes. All injured parties received immediate medical attention at district hospitals.
  • Property Damage: Initial assessments indicate damage to approximately 15 vehicles, including two-wheelers and four-wheelers, along with minor damage to a few commercial establishments in the affected locality.
  • Arrests: Ujjain Police have confirmed the detention of 12 individuals in connection with the incident. Further arrests are anticipated as investigations proceed, with efforts focused on identifying and apprehending all involved parties.
  • Prohibitory Orders: Following the events, District Collector Neeraj Singh imposed Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) in select areas of Ujjain, prohibiting the assembly of four or more people, to ensure peace and prevent further unrest.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Prateek Kumar stated in a press briefing that the situation was brought under control within hours. "Our primary objective was to ensure the safety of citizens and restore normalcy," Kumar said. "We are thoroughly investigating the matter, reviewing CCTV footage, and interrogating those detained to ascertain the root cause and identify instigators." The administration has appealed to citizens to maintain peace and not to spread rumors or engage in activities that could incite further discord. Community leaders have also been urged to assist in de-escalation efforts and promote harmony.

As of Thursday morning, a heavy police presence remains in Ujjain, particularly in the Freeganj and adjoining areas. The district administration continues to monitor the situation closely, with regular patrols and checks being conducted. Investigations are ongoing, and authorities are working towards ensuring that those responsible for the violence are brought to justice, while simultaneously focusing on long-term measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.