36 arrested after Kanpur clashes, security beefed up in sensitive areas

Less than a day after violence erupted in parts of Kanpur, the police arrested 36 people for their alleged role in the clashes, according to ANI.

The arrests were made after police identified alleged perpetrators using video clips. Police commissioner Vijay Singh Meena said that action will be taken against the conspirators under the Gangster Act and their property will be seized, according to a report in NDTV.

Kanpur saw an escalation in tension after BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma made certain comments about Prophet Mohammed during a recent news debate on the Gyanvapi issue. Two communities indulged in stone-pelting over attempts to shut shop in protests against Sharma's comments.

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Police say members of a particular community took to the streets in protest and shouted slogans. Members from another community opposed the protest and violence ensued.

According to PTI, at least 40 people including 20 police personnel were injured during the clashes, and 3 FIRs were registered in the case against 500 people.