Meerpet tense as rival groups assemble over alleged assault linked to conversion row

Tension prevailed in Hyderabad's Meerpet area on Wednesday after police resorted to a mild lathicharge to disperse protesters demanding action against those accused of assaulting two women in Almasguda. Members of Dalit Christian organisations staged a road blockade over the incident.

Hyderabad: Tension prevailed in Meerpet on Wednesday when police resorted to a mild lathicharge to disperse protesters who gathered at Meerpet junction over the assault on two women at Almasguda about a month ago.

The women were allegedly cornered and assaulted by a group of men who accused them of attempting religious conversion. A video of the incident went viral on social media, triggering protests by members of local Dalit Christian organisations.

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The protesters belonging to Dalit Christian organisations, gathered at Meerpet junction, blocked the road and demanded the arrest of those involved in the assault. Meanwhile, members of Hindu organisations also assembled at the spot and raised slogans, leading to tension between the two groups.

Sensing the possibility of the situation escalating, police resorted to a mild lathicharge to disperse the protesters and restore order. Additional police personnel were deployed in the area to prevent further disturbances.