Date:01/10/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/10/01/stories/2008100156581300.htm

National

2 killed in clashes, police firing

Special Correspondent

MUMBAI: Two people were killed in clashes and police firing at Rabodi in Thane on Monday night, Police Commissioner Anil Dhere said.

A quarrel over the location of an archway of a Navratri pandal near a mosque resulted in the clashes around 9.30 p.m. Mobs attacked the local police station and several vehicles and shops were also torched. Apart from 39 policemen, 19 people were injured in the incident.

Deputy Chief Minister R.R. Patil and other leaders rushed to the spot on Monday night as the situation was tense. Clashes continued in the night and the last incident of stone throwing was reported at 4.30 a.m. on Tuesday, the police said. The police imposed curfew in the area from 11.30 p.m. but relaxed it on Tuesday as the situation was peaceful. Mr. Dhere said the archway was finally built and a Durga idol installed.

Activist Teesta Setalvad alleged that Bajrang Dal and Shiv Sena activists attacked and burnt 57 houses. A first information report has been registered. She said a woman was burnt alive inside her house.