Police officer injured in Surat mob attack

A Gujarat Police officer sustained injuries in a mob attack following the discovery of the severed head of a calf in Surat, forcing police to forcibly to disperse the crowd.

Police burst tear gas and carried out a baton charge to bring the situation under control at the Maharana Pratap Chowk in Godadara area, a senior police officer said.

"A crowd gathered at the spot and began protesting. Many pelted stones, which forced us to use lathis and tear gas," Surat Police Commissioner Satish Sharma said.

While local traders observed a bandh in protest against the incident, the police commissioner said the situation was under control.

At least 20 workers of Bajrang Dal were taken into custody after they set fire to several meat shops.

A police sub-inspector was injured in the violence.

--IANS

desai/vd