Curfew in Allahabad following desecration of Koran - Amended

Curfew has been imposed in five police station areas of Allahabad after a Muslim mob indulged in acts of vandalism over the alleged desecration of the Koran.

Allahabad, Sep 1 : Curfew has been imposed in five police station areas of Allahabad after a Muslim mob indulged in acts of vandalism over the alleged 'desecration' of the Koran.

The five areas under curfew are Kareli, Khuldabad, Shahaganj, Atarsuiya and Kotwali.

Troubled started at the Kareli Police Station area last night where Koran was allegedly found desecrated inside a place of worship. As news of the desecration spread, angry mob surrounded the police station and pelted it with stones. Several policemen were injured in the incident.

Police had to resort to a baton charge and opened fire in the air to bring the situation under control.

"We fired shots in the air. We have so far not received any reports of any injured due to this," said K. S. Pratap, Acting Senior Superintendent of Police, Allahabad.

"Some people tried to disrupt the peace. But, the situation is now under control," said Ashish Goyal, District Collector.

The Rapid Action Force has been deployed in the area to prevent untoward incidents. Additional security personnel from other districts have also been requisitioned. Educational institutions are closed for the day as a precautionary measure.

ANI