Fri Oct 18 04:25:25 UTC 2024: ## Internet Restored in Bahraich After Communal Violence, Businesses Reopen

**Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh:** Internet services were restored in Bahraich district on Thursday, October 17, following four days of disruption due to communal violence in Maharajganj. The violence, which erupted on Sunday, October 13, during a Durga idol immersion procession, resulted in the death of 22-year-old Ram Gopal Mishra due to gunshot wounds.

The police have confirmed that the cause of death was a gunshot wound and have refuted rumors circulating on social media about the incident. Additional Superintendent of Police Pavitra Mohan Tripathi has issued a stern warning against the spread of misinformation, urging residents to maintain communal harmony.

The violence, which began over an alleged dispute regarding loud music played during the procession, led to arson and vandalism in the area. Shops, showrooms, hospitals, and vehicles were targeted by mobs. The police have arrested 55 suspects and deployed heavy security in the town.

The internet shutdown, which impacted businesses and residents reliant on online services, has been lifted. Markets, except those in Maharajganj, reopened on Wednesday, and more shops are expected to resume business on Thursday.

While a handful of grocery shops in Maharajganj market were open on Thursday morning, the majority remained closed. Police raids conducted on Wednesday night in search of the main accused in the violence resulted in no arrests. The family of the deceased has filed an FIR against six named individuals and four unknown suspects, with only one arrest made so far.

Religious leaders from both Hindu and Muslim communities have appealed for peace and harmony following the incident.

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