13-yr-old hurt as clashes continue to rock Punhana

Tension continues to simmer in the Punhana segment of Nuh district following the Assembly polls, with another violent clash breaking out yesterday in Jaiwant village. Supporters of two rival candidates engaged in a bloody brawl, which escalated to gunfire, injuring a 13-year-old boy who was playing outside his home.

The police have so far registered three FIRs related to poll clashes, with 62 accused named across various incidents. The latest clash has led to the booking of 42 individuals, with 27 named in one FIR and 15 in another. Both sides have filed counter complaints, each accusing the other of initiating the gunfire.

The CCTV footage of the incident has gone viral on social media, showing youths climbing rooftops, pelting stones, and firing shots during the altercation.

In response to the violence, authorities have increased security in the area, especially in light of the upcoming election results. The Punhana segment had already witnessed significant tension on polling day, with major clashes reported in Khwajalika Kala of Pinangwa, where supporters of opposing candidates resorted to stone-pelting, resulting in multiple injuries.

The latest clash is believed to have stemmed from accusations of bogus voting. Supporters of Congress candidate Mohammad Ilyas and Independent candidate Rahish Khan have been involved in several confrontations. “The situation is under control and peaceful. Security has been stepped up, and no further fights or brawls will be tolerated,” said an official spokesperson of the Nuh police.