Illustration shows a violent Diwali clash on Science City Road as a group attacks a housing society with sticks and clubs after a firecracker dispute, while a resident fires warning shots into the air from a licensed pistol to disperse the crowd.
Ahmedabad : A Diwali celebration on Science City Road turned violent late on Sunday night when a group of 20 to 25 people allegedly attacked residents of a housing society with sticks and clubs following a dispute over bursting firecrackers. During the clash, a resident fired three rounds in the air from his licensed pistol to disperse the attackers and prevent further violence.
The attack took place around 10.45pm outside Empire Skyview Apartment, where residents and their families had gathered for Diwali celebrations. Tensions had been brewing since Friday, when residents objected to a group of youths bursting firecrackers near a tea stall across the road after rockets and other crackers allegedly landed among them, according to a complaint filed by a 44-year-old resident. A group of around 20 to 25 people armed with sticks and clubs reached the spot and allegedly assaulted residents and their guests.
Police said the situation escalated when the youths allegedly summoned reinforcements. The youths reportedly refused to stop and challenged the residents before leaving. Residents again objected after a rocket landed among society members. Another rocket soon landed nearby, leading to a heated argument.