Rajasthan: Stone-Pelting in Chomu After Road Clearance Near Mosque, Six Policemen Injured

New Delhi: Early on Friday morning, a routine traffic improvement task near a mosque in Jaipur's Chomu turned into a volatile scene. Residents and municipal workers were removing stones left on the road outside the mosque to ease congestion when a disagreement quickly escalated. 

What began as a local cleanup around 3 am spiralled into a clash between a crowd and the police. The angry group began pelting stones at officers trying to manage the situation. At least six policemen were injured in the violence, according to official reports. 

Why did people react?

Officials had earlier held talks with community leaders and agreed to clear the stone-strewn roadside to improve traffic flow. Local authorities say the initial removal went peacefully. But trouble flared when some people began installing metal railings in the cleared space before first light. That act sparked protests, and soon a larger group gathered.

Eyewitnesses said what should have been calm work turned tense as rumours spread and more people joined. Some in the crowd began shouting and eventually started throwing stones at the police. 

How did police respond?

To control the situation, officers fired tear gas and called in reinforcements. The bus stand area near the mosque looked like a cantonment with additional forces and barricades. Police appealed to locals to stay calm and avoid spreading unverified reports that were adding to the tension.

Officials confirmed that none of the injuries to the police were life-threatening. They are being treated, and more personnel have been deployed to keep the peace.

What's next?

Chomu police station officer Pradeep Sharma clarified that only stones lying on the road were removed. He has warned that strict action will be taken against those who spread fake news through social media. Police are now identifying those who tried to disturb the peace and obstruct government work on the basis of video footage.

Authorities said they will investigate the incident, ensure the continued removal and organisation of roadside materials, and work with community leaders to prevent further unrest. Local residents were urged to help maintain calm and cooperate with the police and civic agencies.