Jharkhand: Two Dead In Violence In Ranchi After Friday Prayers Over Prophet Remark

At least two people have died and several others were injured in violence in Jharkhand's capital Ranchi during protests after Friday prayers against suspended BJP leader Nupur Sharma's remarks on Prophet Muhammad during a TV debate.

The protesters, who were demanding arrest of suspended Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Nupur Sharma, had clashed with the police, forcing officials to resort to lathi-charge and fire in the air.

" Two people have succumbed to their injuries out of total injured who were brought to Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) after the violence in Ranchi," confirmed RIMS authorities, reports ANI.

"As per initial reports, 11 Police personnel and 12 protesters were injured and are being treated at various hospitals," the Jharkhand Police was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.

The protest that erupted after Friday prayers had turned violent following the incidents of stone-pelting and torching of several vehicles and vandalisation were reported.

To control the situation, the authorities had to impose curfew in several parts of the city and suspend internet services.

The officials urged people to maintain calm, but have stressed that the situation is under control.

Meanwhile, protests and sloganeering were held after Friday congregational prayers in several parts of the country, including Delhi, parts of Uttar Pradesh, Bengal, Rajasthan and Maharashtra and Jharkhand over Nupur Sharma's remarks against Prophet Mohammed.

In Atala area of Prayagraj, people raised slogans and pelted stones after the Friday prayers ended.