Wed Mar 05 07:48:20 UTC 2025: ## Police Injured in Clash During Temple Festival in Andhra Pradesh
**Rayachoti, Andhra Pradesh –** Four police officers were injured Tuesday night in Rayachoti, Annamayya district, during a clash between two groups at the annual Brahmotsavams festival of the ancient Veerabadhra Swamy Temple. The incident occurred as a temple procession neared Thana Junction, where a confrontation erupted, escalating into stone-throwing.
Over a thousand people were involved in the violence, resulting in injuries to both police and civilians. Superintendent of Police V. Vidyasagar Naidu responded swiftly, deploying additional forces to quell the disturbance and restore order. Section 144, prohibiting unlawful assembly, has been imposed on all key junctions in the town, known for past instances of communal tension.
Police have taken several individuals into custody for questioning. Using drone footage, authorities are identifying those responsible for the violence. Despite the temple’s reputation for religious harmony, the SP emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and warned against spreading misinformation on social media. He engaged with community elders, urging them to promote peace and harmony. The Section 144 order remains in effect until further notice.
First Piper 