communal clash
[Representational Image]Reuters File

Three people were killed and 10 others sustained injuries in clashes between two communities in Ambeta village near Hansot town of Gujarat's southern Bharuch district on Wednesday.

While one died in the village, two others succumbed to injuries while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Surat. Those injured were rushed to hospitals in Hansot, Bharuch and Surat, where they are under medical care.

Soon after the police learnt about the clashes, State Reserve Police Personnel were sent to the affected regions to bring the situation under control.

"The situation is now under control as we have called in extra force. We are keeping a close watch," PTI quoted Bharuch Superintendent of Police Bipin Ahire as saying.

The clash broke out after a man thrashed a boy, belonging to a minority community, for chasing kites in Ambeta village on the occasion of Makar Sankranti. Violence soon spread to Hansot town where people started attacking religious places and shops.

"People pelted stones. We also learnt that some shops were burnt down," Ahire said.

The police personnel had to fire rounds of tear gas shells to disperse mobs and contain the violence.