In a chilling display of caste-based violence, members of the Bhil community set 12 houses belonging to the Banjara community ablaze in Panheti village, Guna district, Madhya Pradesh. The attack, fueled by a longstanding land dispute, followed the death of a Bhil community member, Galsingh Bhil, who succumbed to injuries from a previous altercation during Diwali festivities.
Key Developments
- Historical Feud: The violence stems from a protracted disagreement over forest land in Panheti village, located in Bamori tehsil.
- Triggering Incident: Tensions flared after Diwali clashes left Galsingh Bhil and Kallu Banjara gravely injured. Galsingh’s death on Monday night appears to have instigated the retaliatory arson by the Bhil community early Tuesday morning.
- Casualties and Damage: While no lives were lost during the incident, significant property damage occurred, leaving 12 families of the Banjara community homeless and devastated.
Police and Administrative Action
- A rapid response by local authorities helped contain the unrest.
- Gwalior IG Arvind Saxena confirmed that the situation is under control, with heavy police deployment and round-the-clock monitoring by senior officials, including the Superintendent of Police.
- An FIR has been lodged, and investigations are underway to identify and prosecute those responsible.
Community Reactions and Demands
The displaced Banjara families are seeking immediate government intervention for compensation, relief, and rehabilitation. Local residents have joined the call for urgent action, highlighting the need for long-term resolution to avoid future conflicts.
Broader Implications
The incident underscores the persistent challenges of caste-based disputes in rural India, where historical land disagreements often erupt into violence. The tragedy also spotlights the critical need for effective conflict resolution mechanisms and community support systems in such volatile regions.
Further updates are expected as investigations progress and relief measures are initiated.
