12 houses set on fire during caste-based violence in MP

On Tuesday morning, an incident of caste-based violence unfolded in Panheti village, located under the Fatehgarh police station in Guna district, Madhya Pradesh. Members of the Bhil community allegedly set fire to 12 homes belonging to the Banjara community. The attack occurred when most villagers were working in nearby fields, sparing lives but resulting in extensive material damage. As a result, several Banjara families have been left without homes or belongings, with the destruction affecting their livelihoods.

The violence stems from an ongoing land dispute between the Bhil and Banjara communities over forest land in Panheti village, located in Bamori tehsil. Tensions between the two communities had escalated in recent months, particularly during Diwali when a violent clash occurred between members of the Bhil and Banjara communities. This confrontation left two individuals seriously injured: Galsingh Bhil, a member of the Bhil community, and Kallu Banjara, a member of the Banjara community. Both were hospitalized due to the severity of their injuries.

On Monday evening, Galsingh Bhil succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment in Indore. His death is believed to have triggered the retaliatory attack on Tuesday morning, as members of the Bhil community allegedly launched the assault in an act of revenge for his death. The houses of the Banjara community were set ablaze in the early hours of the day, resulting in substantial property damage but no casualties, as most of the villagers were away working in fields.

Upon receiving reports of the arson, local police and administrative officials responded immediately to control the situation. The authorities have since deployed a large number of police officers to Panheti village to restore order and ensure the safety of residents. Gwalior Inspector General (IG) Arvind Saxena confirmed that the situation was under control. The Superintendent of Police and his team were also present on-site to oversee the developments and prevent further escalation. A heavy police presence remains in the area to maintain peace.

An FIR has been registered in connection with the incident, and an investigation is underway. Police are working to identify those responsible for the arson and violence. Authorities are collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses to determine the extent of involvement by individuals from both communities. Meanwhile, the police are also looking into the underlying land dispute and tensions that have contributed to the recent outbreak of violence.

The affected families from the Banjara community are demanding immediate intervention from the government. They have called for compensation for the destruction of their homes and a comprehensive rehabilitation plan. In addition, the residents have asked for measures to address the long-standing land disputes between the two communities. Local residents have expressed concern about the possibility of further violence if the situation is not addressed promptly.