Migrant workers from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar have been facing protests and attacks across Gujarat for the past three days following the arrest of a Bihar native for allegedly raping a 14-month-old girl in Sabarkantha district on September 28.

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Incidents of violence have been reported from several parts of the state, including Gandhinagar, Mehsana, Sabarkantha, Patan and Ahmedabad districts. More than 150 people have been arrested so far. Director General of Police Shivanand Jha said: "Non-Gujaratis were targeted, especially those who belonged to UP and Bihar were attacked by protestors. Till now, around 18 FIRs have been lodged, and we have been able to arrest more than 150 people. Strict action will be taken against them."

After the incidents of violence, the state police have tightened security measures in sensitive areas. Mayanksinh Chavda, Inspector General (Gandhinagar Range), said: "We have deployed two SRP companies in Sabarkantha and Mehsana districts and patrolling has been done in the area. Apart from that, three SRP companies are on standby, while the local police have been alerted to keep a close watch on the situation."

More officials are deployed in the evening as most of the incidents of violence were reported in the later part of the day. "We have increased vigil at factories and societies having non-Gujaratis. Our technical team is keeping a close tab on social media regarding misleading messages," Jha said.

Late on Thursday night, violence broke out near Keshawnagar area near Sabarmati bridge in Ahmedabad, where a group started attacking non-Gujaratis living in a house. The incident took place after a verbal dispute between members of the Thakor community and the residents over the rape case.

Ashutosh Parmar, ACP of 'B' division, said: "We have not registered a complaint in the matter because when police reached the spot no victims were available and nobody came forward to lodge a complaint. Primary investigation revealed that the families were attacked and their house was vandalised. After the incident, the victims are either hiding at their relative's place or have left the city."

On October 2, a mob of 200 people stormed a factory in Mehsana and thrashed two employees. As many as 20 people were arrested in connection with the incident.

A group of around 25 people belonging to the Thakor community held protests against migrants and vandalised vehicles and carts in Chandlodia on October 3.

CRIME SHEET

  • Violent protests erupted across the state after a 14-month-old girl was raped by a labourer from Bihar in Sabarkantha   
  • Accused identified as Ravindra Sahu was later arrested by police   
  • The victim belonged to the Thakor community