The life is inching back to normal in the violence-hit Aurangabad in Maharashtra as the authorities continue to implement strict security measures to avoid any incidents like Friday night when clashes between two groups claimed two lives.
Apart from casualties, the riots had left around 50 people injured, 100 shops and 80 vehicles gutted.
The unrest had forced the district administration to clamp prohibitory orders under section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure banning assembly of people and suspended Internet services. The prohibitions were still in place by Sunday morning.
Also read | Sec 144 imposed in Aurangabad after mob sets 40 shops, 110 vehicles on fire, 1 minor killed; situation remains tense
This morning, locals said that the situation was peaceful now as the police were present in high numbers.
According to local sources, the tension was brewing in Moti Karanja area for the last few days as the municipal corporation was carrying out a drive against illegal water connections.
It got a communal colour when an illegal water connection at a place of worship in the area was removed, sources added.
The rioting started in Moti Karanja area around 10 on Friday night and spread to Gandhi Nagar, Raja Bazaar, Shah Ganj and Sarafa areas, forcing police to fire in the air and lob teargas shells, the official added.
Among those injured were seven women and a dozen policemen, including an assistant commissioner of police.
Rioters set fire to around 100 shops and 80 vehicles, the official said, adding that 37 persons have been arrested for rioting and arson.
Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Legislative Council Dhananjay Munde alleged that the violence reflected a failure of the state intelligence machinery, and demanded a judicial probe into the incident.
Appealing for peace, the NCP leader asked the police to take local people in confidence while handling the tense situation.
(With inputs from PTI)
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