WhatsApp Post Sparks Communal Clashes in Pune; Over 500 Booked

Violence broke out in Yavat village, located in Pune district, after a WhatsApp post hurt the religious feelings of some locals, police said on Saturday. The clashes led to five FIRs being registered, involving more than 500 people.

Police Take Action Against Hundreds Involved

On Friday afternoon, trouble started when a social media post led to outrage among residents. Groups of people reacted by damaging property and starting fires across the village. Police confirmed the youth behind the post was arrested, while 17 others were held for rioting and destruction of property. Over 100 individuals have been identified so far.

An officer at Yavat police station stated that four of the five registered cases relate to more than 500 people accused of damaging property and setting fires. Among them, 17 were taken into custody. During the unrest, a bakery, a motorcycle, two cars, and one religious place were attacked. Police had to use tear gas and batons to manage the crowd.

Security Strengthened, Orders Imposed

Authorities quickly moved to control the situation. A ban on public gatherings was put in place in Yavat. Superintendent of Police Sandeep Singh Gill said early findings show no signs of a planned act, but a full investigation is still underway. He mentioned that the youth responsible for the post has lived in the village for years.

A large force, including SRPF units, has been deployed in the area. Restrictions under BNSS section 163 and BNS section 144 were implemented Friday night and will stay until further notice, he added.

Leaders Respond, Locals Call for Peace

Additional SP Ganesh Biradar shared that authorities are monitoring social media and also using drones to keep watch. He confirmed that 16 to 17 people had been detained. BJP MLA Rahul Kul visited the area on Friday night and met with senior police officers, including Special IG Sunil Phulari.

A resident shared, “Things are calm now. People here live peacefully, but the post caused anger.” During his Pune visit, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the post accused a Hindu priest of rape in another state, sparking the violence. He said some people spread such posts to create problems and warned that strict action would be taken.

“No one should post things that cause harm to others,” he added. Deputy CM Ajit Pawar also went to Yavat. He said the youth who posted the message is from Nanded and works as a daily laborer. The post referred to an event in Madhya Pradesh and led to local outrage.