Tension gripped Sihora town in Jabalpur district of Madhya Pradesh on Thursday night, February 19, 2026, after members of two communities clashed in the Azad Chowk area. The violence led to stone pelting, damage to shops and vehicles, and heavy police deployment.
The incident took place around 9 pm at Azad Chowk in Ward No 5, where a Durga temple and the Madina Masjid Ahle Sunnat mosque are located opposite each other in a sensitive area.
Dispute During Aarti and Prayers
According to reports, the clash began when an evening aarti was being performed at the temple while prayers were underway at the mosque. Some people reportedly objected to the loudspeaker volume during the religious activities.
Eyewitnesses said an argument broke out after allegations that the temple’s protective grill was damaged. The verbal dispute quickly turned violent, with members of both sides pelting stones at each other.
Videos circulating on social media showed people throwing stones and using sticks, which increased tension in the area. Several shops and vehicles along the road were damaged during the clash.
Police Use Tear Gas, Situation Under Control
Police teams initially tried to calm the crowd. However, when the situation did not improve, officers fired eight to ten tear gas shells to disperse the mob.
Senior officials, including District Collector Raghavendra Singh and Superintendent of Police Sampat Upadhyay, reached the spot to monitor the situation.
Collector Singh said on Friday, “The situation is now fully under control.” SP Upadhyay confirmed that members of both communities were involved in vandalism, which forced the police to use tear gas.
A senior police officer said, “No one will be allowed to disturb law and order. Strict action will be taken against those involved.”
Over 15 Detained, Investigation Underway
Police have detained more than 15 people so far, and over two dozen suspects have been identified. Authorities are examining CCTV footage and drone recordings to identify others involved in the violence.
Officials said vehicles used during the clash may also be seized as part of the investigation. Security has been tightened in the area, especially as the month of Ramadan has begun, with additional forces deployed to prevent any fresh incident.
Minister Condemns Violence
In Bhopal, Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Vishwas Sarang said that Madhya Pradesh is a peaceful state and warned against attempts to take the law into one’s hands.
Referring to a viral video that allegedly showed stones being thrown from a building, he said, “An investigation is underway. Action will be taken against those responsible.”
Authorities have appealed to the public not to spread rumours and to maintain peace. Heavy police presence continues in Sihora to ensure normalcy and prevent further escalation.
