LUCKNOW: A violent clash erupted between two groups of priests at the historic Baba Mahendranath Temple in Deoria district over conducting religious rituals and sharing temple offerings. The altercation led to police action against members from both sides.
Incident Details
According to Deoria Police, the incident occurred on June 13 at the temple complex in Mahen village under Madanpur police station limits. The dispute stemmed from disagreements over performing puja rituals for devotees and issues related to offerings made at the temple. The disagreement soon turned into a physical confrontation between the rival groups.
Legal Action Taken
Based on complaints from both sides, Madanpur police registered cross FIRs under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including charges of assault, criminal force, and intentional provocation. Acting under the directions of Superintendent of Police Abhijit R. Shankar and supervision of Additional Superintendent of Police (North) Anand Kumar Pandey and Rudrapur Circle Officer Satyendra Rai, police launched an operation and arrested six accused linked to the case.
Arrested Individuals
The arrested individuals were identified as Vashishtha Bharti (46), Markandeya Bharti (55), Janardan Goswami (58), Sameer Goswami (40), Akash Goswami (30), and Vishal Goswami (22), all residents of Mahen village. They were booked under preventive provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and produced for further legal proceedings.
Preventive Measures
During the inquiry, police also initiated preventive action against five other persons—Ratnesh Yadav, Pawan Yadav, Sanjay Yadav, Rahul Yadav, and Satyam Tiwari—to maintain peace and public order in the area.
Official Statement
Circle Officer Rudrapur Satyendra Rai said the clash occurred between priests over conducting worship services and issues related to temple offerings. He confirmed that cases had been registered against both sides and that six accused had been arrested. The officer added that the situation at the temple remains peaceful and under control. Police said further legal proceedings are underway.
