Clashes Reported in Chhattisgarh’s Gariaband Over New Namaz Site; Homes Damaged, Several Injured.

Hindutva Mob Attacks Muslim Homes in Chhattisgarh’s Gariaband Over a New Namaz Place; Several Injured, Tension Rise.

Suchitra Rajpal | HENB | Raipur | Feb 3, 2026:: Communal tensions flared in Chhattisgarh’s Gariaband district after an agitated Hindutva mob allegedly attacked members of the Muslim community in Dutkaiya village, torching homes, vandalising property, and triggering hours of unrest over a dispute related to the establishment of a new namaz (Islamic prayer) site.

According to media reports and police sources, the violence erupted after objections were raised by local Hindu residents to the setting up of a new prayer venue in what they described as a predominantly Hindu locality, allegedly involving the participation of Muslims from outside the village in order to create pressures on Hindu residents. The disagreement soon escalated into a heated confrontation, eventually turning violent.

Eyewitnesses said that hundreds of attackers armed with sticks, bricks, stones, and kerosene bottles gathered in the village and targeted the houses of around 10 Muslim families. The families reportedly locked themselves inside their homes in an attempt to stay safe as the mob attempted to force entry.

During the rampage, several houses were set on fire, vehicles were torched, and household belongings were vandalised. Victims alleged that escape routes were blocked, leaving residents trapped as the violence continued for several hours.

Police later reached the spot and managed to evacuate more than two dozen people, including women and children. Speaking to reporters, a senior police officer said, “We managed to safely evacuate those trapped inside their homes. Two civilians sustained injuries, while six police personnel were seriously hurt while controlling the situation. One officer suffered a head injury after being hit by a brick.”

The officer added that the situation is now under control and that additional forces have been deployed in the area to prevent further escalation.

According to preliminary police accounts, the confrontation stemmed from disputes over religious practices and alleged disturbances linked to the proposed prayer site. Authorities said they are examining the role of all parties involved and stressed that no one would be allowed to take the law into their own hands.

Around 30 people from the affected families have since fled the village and reached Raipur, seeking safety and administrative assistance. Among them, victims Zarina Shahnaz and Daulat Bi recounted the ordeal, describing moments of worries as the mob grew in number.

“We kept calling the police, but before they arrived, our houses were set on fire. They assaulted us and burned everything we owned. Both roads were blocked, and we had nowhere to go. We somehow managed to save our lives,” they said.

The victims further alleged that women, children, and elderly members of the community were also assaulted during the attack.

Police officials said cases are being registered based on complaints received, and investigations are underway to identify those responsible for the alleged violence. Authorities have appealed for calm and warned that strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty of inciting or participating in the violence.
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_Agency Inputs.