A major law-and-order situation unfolded in Patkapur, one of Kanpur’s most sensitive localities, when an online post by a youth belonging to the Shia community triggered communal outrage among Sunnis. The post, described by police as “deeply offensive,” spread rapidly on social media, leading to a volatile gathering outside the youth’s residence on September 7.
According to eyewitnesses, a large crowd soon surrounded the house of the accused, identified as Sojaf, raising ‘Sar Tan Se Juda’ slogans, breaking open the gate, and pelting stones at the property. Within minutes, chaos gripped the narrow lanes of Patkapur.
The Kotwali police circle force and DCP East Satyajit Gupta immediately reached the spot to prevent the violence from spiralling. Police appealed to the mob to maintain peace and not take the law into their own hands.
When repeated warnings went unheeded, the police used mild force to disperse the crowd. By late evening, the situation was brought under control, though the atmosphere in the area remained tense.
“We will not allow anyone to disturb harmony. Those who raised inflammatory slogans and resorted to vandalism will be identified and action will be taken,” DCP Gupta told reporters.
Considering the communal sensitivity of the area, the administration deployed additional police units and personnel from the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) to maintain calm. Patrols have been intensified, and senior officers remain stationed in Patkapur to prevent flare-ups.
Shia-Sunni dispute behind tensions
Preliminary investigations confirmed that the clash was rooted in sectarian rivalry. Police sources revealed that Sojaf’s social media post contained remarks offensive to the Sunni community, sparking the furious reaction.
“We are verifying the content of the post. Social media has often been a flashpoint in communal incidents, and we are ensuring such misuse does not spread further,” an investigating officer said.
Accused in custody, FIR registered
Police took Sojaf into custody and confirmed that an FIR is being registered against him for his remarks. Meanwhile, several individuals from the mob have also been detained for questioning over violence, slogan-shouting, and stone-pelting.
The administration has assured residents that law and order will be upheld at all costs. “Strict action will be taken against anyone trying to disturb peace and harmony, regardless of community,” police officials emphasised.
While calm has been restored, the incident has left the locality tense, with residents fearful of further sectarian flare-ups.
