Sun Mar 09 19:35:35 UTC 2025: **Police Clash with Cricket Fans After India’s Champions Trophy Win**
Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh – Celebrations following India’s victory in the ICC Champions Trophy turned violent in Vijayawada on Sunday night. Police used lathi charges to disperse crowds of jubilant fans gathered at Benz Circle, resulting in reported injuries to several young people. The incident occurred after large numbers of fans converged on the area, causing significant traffic congestion. According to Commissioner of Police S.V. Rajashekar Babu, police intervened to clear the traffic.
Elsewhere in the state, the celebrations were largely peaceful. In Visakhapatnam, fans took to the streets in motorcycle rallies, waving flags and celebrating with fireworks. Similar scenes of joyous celebration, including special prayers held earlier in the day, were reported across Andhra Pradesh.
This win marks India’s second consecutive ICC trophy victory, following their T20 World Cup win last year. Social media was awash with congratulatory messages for the team. While Visakhapatnam saw mostly jubilant celebrations, the police response in Vijayawada highlights the challenges of managing large crowds during such events.
First Piper 