15 arrested for clash over Holi procession in Bihar’s West Champaran: Police

• Bettiah police arrested 15 people after two groups clashed during Holi celebrations, leaving about a dozen people injured near Madhopur village
• The incident occurred when a Holi procession was passing by the mosque, prompting some people to protest against the loud music
• A police team is camping in the village

Bettiah police in Bihar on Thursday arrested 15 people after two groups clashed during Holi celebrations, leaving about a dozen people injured near Madhopur village under Majhauliya police station limits in West Champaran on Wednesday evening.

Bettiah Superintendent of Police (SP) Upendra Nath Verma said at least 15 people were arrested for indulging in hooliganism and creating trouble during Holi. “Raids are underway to catch other people,” the SP added.

Police said the incident occurred when a Holi procession was passing by the mosque, prompting some people to protest against the loud music. An argument ensued between the two parties.

Normalcy returned after District Magistrate (DM) Kundan Kumar and Bettiah rushed to the spot with reinforcements and took charge on Wednesday evening. “The situation is tense, but under control. A police team is camping in the village,” said a police officer.

The district police refuted the claims of some villagers that a person died in the clash. Verma said the man was ill and was taken to hospital. “His death was not due to a fight,” he said.