Udaipur- Tensions flared in Udaipur on Friday afternoon after a violent altercation between two students from different religious backgrounds escalated into widespread unrest across the city. The incident, which occurred around 10:30 AM in the Surajpole police station area, sparked violent protests, leading authorities to impose Section 144 ( section 163 as per the new Bhartiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita) prohibiting the assembly of four or more people.

The altercation took place at the Government Higher Secondary School in Bhattiyani Chohatta, where a student attacked his classmate with a knife, injuring him severely in the thigh. The injured student was rushed to Maharana Bhupal (MB) Hospital by his teacher, where he is currently receiving treatment. The boy is said to be out of danger and his condition is stable.

Following the incident, tensions escalated quickly as news spread throughout the city. Members of various Hindu organizations gathered in protest, shutting down shops in key areas such as Chetak Circle, Hathipole, Ashwini Bazaar, Bapu Bazaar, and Ghantaghar. The protests soon turned violent, with reports of stone-pelting and vandalism at a local shopping mall. In one incident, vehicles parked in a garage were set on fire.

Police responded with a lathi charge to disperse the crowds, and a large police presence has been deployed across the city to maintain order. Udaipur Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Umesh Ojha confirmed that forces from 15 police stations, along with additional personnel from the police line, have been stationed in various parts of the city. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, urging citizens to remain calm and maintain peace.

Udaipur District Collector Arvind Poswal, who imposed Section 144, stated that the minor student responsible for the attack has been detained, and his father has also been arrested. He assured that a thorough investigation into the incident is underway. "We will conduct a serious inquiry into the matter and ensure that the rule of law is maintained," Poswal said.

Both students involved in the altercation are reportedly around 15 years old and were classmates. District Education Officer Lokesh Bharti mentioned that while the exact cause of the dispute remains unclear, the altercation occurred just outside the school premises during lunch break. "Both students are good in academics and have never been seen fighting before," said school principal Isha Dharmawat. "This incident has shocked us all."

As the injured student's family rushed to the hospital, members of Hindu organizations also arrived, raising slogans and expressing their outrage over the incident. In response, police have secured the hospital premises to prevent any further escalation.

Heavy police forces have been deployed throughout the city to maintain law and order. Additional reinforcements have also been pressed into service to prevent any further escalation of violence and to ensure the safety of the public.

Authorities have stationed personnel from multiple police stations across key areas, while senior officers remain on high alert, closely monitoring the situation. The decision to bolster security measures was taken to contain any potential threats and to quickly respond to any untoward situations that may arise.

The city remains tense, and officials are urging residents to cooperate with law enforcement and abide by the imposed Section 144, which restricts public gatherings to prevent further disturbances.

High Tourist Footfall, Visitors Advised to Stay Indoors

With the weekend approaching, and Monday being the festival of Rakhi, Udaipur, a popular tourist destination, was expected to see a significant influx of visitors. Hotels across the city had already reported high bookings, anticipating the usual rush of tourists eager to enjoy the long weekend.

However, the school stabbing incident has prompted hoteliers to advice tourists to stay in. Visitors at various spots around the city were advised to return to their hotels and remain indoors to ensure their safety and avoid any potential inconveniences.