Overview
- Police said 23-year-old Tushar Sharma was fatally stabbed during a late-night clash between two groups at Khatima’s bus station, with two others seriously injured and referred to a higher medical facility.
- Two suspects, identified as Hashim and Sameer from Islamnagar, have been detained as CCTV footage is reviewed to trace others, and police said the violence stemmed from a rivalry rather than being communal.
- Section 163 restrictions were enforced across parts of the town with heavy deployment to prevent further unrest and maintain order.
- Local protests linked to Bajrang Dal saw a shop tied to an accused set on fire and commercial areas shut, heightening tensions.
- Police used lathi-charge to clear road blockades, an anti-encroachment drive removed dozens of temporary shops under guard, and the chief minister directed prompt arrests.