Temple Vandalism Triggers Tension in Hyderabad

Clashes erupt in Puranapul area, police deploy heavy security

January 15, 2026: Tension gripped Hyderabad’s Puranapul Darwaza area on Wednesday night after a temple was allegedly vandalised by unidentified persons, sparking protests and unrest. The damage was noticed late in the evening, following which police were alerted and rushed to the spot. As news spread, local residents gathered in large numbers, expressing anger and demanding immediate action. Police officials assured strict action, restored the damaged idol under supervision and deployed additional forces to prevent escalation.

The situation worsened after a flex banner at the temple was reportedly torn, leading to slogan-shouting and heated arguments. The unrest soon turned violent, with a mob allegedly attacking a nearby shrine of another community. Graves were desecrated, a religious flag damaged and several vehicles vandalised. A two-wheeler was set ablaze, traffic was disrupted near the Musi River junction, and stone pelting left at least ten people injured, including a police inspector and several constables.

Police carried out a lathi charge to disperse the crowd and later brought the situation under control with reinforcements. Senior officials, including Additional Commissioner of Police Tafseer Iqubal and Deputy Commissioners from multiple zones, reached the area to oversee security. AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi and Telangana BJP president N. Ramachander Rao later visited the locality, appealing for calm. Authorities have maintained a strong police presence as investigations continue to identify those responsible.