2022 Karauli violence

On April 2, 2022, Hindu-Muslim sectarian violence erupted in Karauli, Rajasthan, during a Hindu New Year bike rally organized by Sangh Parivar groups, including VHP, RSS, and Bajrang Dal. The rally, called "Shobha Yatra," passed through a Muslim-dominated area with inflammatory slogans and music, leading to stone-pelting, stick attacks, and arson. Twenty people, including policemen, were injured, and properties of 80 individuals from both communities were damaged. The rally had been approved by the Karauli District Administration, but tensions arose when it crossed a mosque in the market area. Some miscreants began pelting stones, prompting retaliation and violence. Shops, houses, and vehicles were torched, with the situation brought under control by police deployment. Investigations revealed that the violence may have been pre-planned, as stones were collected a day before the rally. An FIR stated the incident was planned, and Karauli Kotwali SHO Rameshwar Dayal Meena confirmed the rally was peaceful until the attack. Curfew was imposed under Section 144 from April 4 to 17, 2022, with some relaxations. Internet services were suspended for several days following the violence. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed on April 3, led by an Additional SP. Both Congress and BJP set up committees to probe the incident. The Rajasthan government ordered an administrative probe on April 8, appointing IAS Kailash Chand Meena as investigating officer. BJP demanded a judicial probe, accusing the state government of appeasement politics. Aftermath included a major reshuffle of 69 IAS officials, including Karauli Collector Rajendra Singh Shekhawat, replaced ...