Attempted rape of minor girl: Internet services suspended in Nashik; schools, colleges closed

In response to the prevailing tension in Nashik after the attempted rape of a five-year-old girl by a 16-year-old boy at Talegaon near Trimbakeshwar, and the subsequent spread of rumours and instigating messages which went viral, the city police has suspended internet services of all service providers since Monday morning.

On Monday, the situation in Nashik appeared to be calm, though tension prevailed in the morning. Messages from different factions were being circulated on the social media contributing to the volatile environment and instigating emotional reactions.

"As a preventive measure, the Nashik police have suspended the internet services off all companies till next two days," said Nashik's Deputy Commissioner of Police Laxmikant Patil.

Sporadic incidents of arson and stone pelting continued till late night on Sunday.

Heavy police security had been deployed at various places following the large-scale protests. While schools have announced a holiday as a preventive measure, exams have been postponed by several colleges.

Meanwhile, bus services continued to remain suspended in the morning hours and the Mumbai-Agra highway that was blocked till late Sunday night was opened for traffic in the early hours of Monday.

The police also conducted the meeting of all political parties and community leaders in the city and appealed for peace.

Police Commissioner Ravindra Singhla has appealed to the people to not believe in rumours and maintain law and order.