Clash erupts over throwing currency notes during Muharram procession

Bareilly: Two groups clashed during a Muharram tazia procession in Padarthpur village under Bithri Chainpur police station limits on Friday evening after a dispute over throwing currency notes turned violent.The clash erupted around 7 pm when members of one group began throwing currency notes before the tazia, triggering a scramble among onlookers. When members of another group followed suit, an argument escalated into a lathi-danda clash, sending people fleeing in panic. Police used mild force to disperse the mob and are examining video footage to identify those involved.The incident occurred even as Bareilly police deployed WiFi-enabled CCTV cameras mounted on sticks to monitor Muharram processions across the district, in what officials described as a first-of-its-kind initiative in the country.SSP Anurag Arya said every police station was provided with five WiFi-enabled cameras. Constables carried camera-mounted lathis along procession routes, while additional cameras installed on police vehicles ensured wider surveillance.A total of 883 Muharram processions were held under heavy security. Police deployed 18 quick response teams, 94 PRV vehicles, eight drone teams, three PAC companies and over 2,700 personnel across the district.SP North Mukesh Chandra Mishra said those identified in the footage would face strict legal action.