A caste-related clash in Panheti village, Guna district, Madhya Pradesh, escalated into violence on Tuesday, with members of the Bhil community reportedly setting fire to 12 houses belonging to the Banjara community. The incident, stemming from a longstanding land dispute, caused extensive property damage but no casualties, as most villagers were away working in the fields when the attack occurred.
The conflict has its roots in a historic disagreement over forest land in Panheti village, Bamori tehsil, between the Bhil and Banjara communities. Tensions heightened during Diwali celebrations when violent clashes left two individuals, Galsingh Bhil and Kallu Banjara, critically injured. Galsingh Bhil succumbed to his injuries on Monday night in Indore, where he was receiving treatment. The Bhil community allegedly carried out the arson attack as an act of retaliation early Tuesday morning.
Law enforcement and administrative teams promptly arrived at the scene to control the situation. Gwalior Inspector General Arvind Saxena stated that a significant police presence has been deployed to maintain law and order in the village. “The situation is under control, and the Superintendent of Police, along with his team, is monitoring the developments closely,” Saxena said.
An FIR has been registered, and investigations are underway to identify and prosecute those responsible for the violence and arson. Authorities have assured that strict action will be taken against the perpetrators to prevent further escalation of tensions.
This incident highlights ongoing challenges related to caste-based conflicts and land disputes in rural India. Local leaders and community representatives have called for mediation and long-term solutions to address the underlying issues fueling such confrontations.
