Mob Vandalises Muslim Homes, Sets Them Ablaze in Gariaband, Chhattisgarh; Several Police Personnel Injured

Gariaband | February 3, 2026 | DeccanLive.com

A violent incident was reported on Sunday in Dotkaiya village of Gariaband district, Chhattisgarh, where a large mob attacked a Muslim residential area. At least six houses were set on fire, creating panic in the village.

According to reports, the situation remained tense for several hours. Police said that hundreds of people were part of the mob and were carrying sticks, stones, bricks, and bottles filled with kerosene. The crowd allegedly tried to break into the houses of around ten Muslim families, who had locked themselves inside out of fear.

During efforts to control the violence and rescue residents, more than 20 people, including women and children, were helped to safety. Seven police personnel were injured, some of them seriously, while trying to stop the mob and protect the residents.

Police officials said the violence is linked to an old dispute. In 2024, a man named Arif Khan was arrested on charges of vandalism at a village temple and later released on bail. Tensions reportedly increased after his return to the village on Sunday morning, which led to the outbreak of violence.

A senior police officer said that due to the Rajim Kumbh festival, police forces were limited in the area. Despite this, the police managed to control the situation after several hours and prevented the mob from entering more houses. The affected families were later shifted to a safe location by bus.

In total, two civilians and six police officers were injured, with one policeman suffering a serious head injury after being hit by a brick. Police used force to disperse the crowd and said that investigations are ongoing. Security has been increased in the area to prevent further unrest.