Communalism has got a new dimension in Uttar Pradesh with growing tension between two Muslim sects in the state. In the latest incident, seven persons sustained serious injuries on Wednesday night as people of the Barelvi sect clashed with persons of the Deobandi sect in Noorpur area under Shivala Kalan police station of Bijnor district. The Barelvis accused the Deobandis of using foul language against them.

The clash, which is the third such incident in recent times, comes during the holy month of Ramzan. It was sparked by a heated discussion between Mohammad Shamim, a Deobandi, and Mohammad Kale Waseem over the religious practices of the two sects. Kale allegedly used abusive language against the Deobandi sect before more Barelvis gathered at the spot and beat up Shamim.

This was followed by a clash where hundreds of people from both the communities pelted stones and fired at each other. A large number of vehicles were also damaged by both sides. However, the police allegedly remained a mute spectator. "Forces have been deployed at the spot. The situation is under control. Elders of both the sects have been holding meetings to maintain peace and harmony," Circle Officer Mahesh Singh said.

Palika chairperson Haji Irshad Ali and former state minister Haji Qutubuddin Ansari reportedly met the people of the locality on Thursday and requested them to peacefully observe Ramzan.

Members of the two sects had earlier clashed on June 18 in Kemri area of Rampur over a venue. On May 27, Deobandis and Barelvis had clashed in Bareilly over the appointment of a new Imam of Masjid Qutubkhana.

