Late on January 14, 2026, In Muslim majority area under congress government ruled state a Hindu temple near Hyderabad’s historic Puranapul Darwaza was targeted by unidentified vandals, leading to violent clashes and injuries.
![]() |
| Telangana: Security at Hyderabad's Puranapool Maa Durga temple after alleged vandalism. |
The incident occurred around 11:30 p.m. when the vandals entered the temple, damaging deity idols and a flag of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Angry crowds gathered at the site in response. The situation escalated when some from the crowd targeted a nearby Muslim shrine and graves. Protesters then clashed with police, pelting stones that left five people injured, including police officers.
BREAKING: Hindu temple vandalized near Hyderabad's Puranapul Darwaza. Deity idols damaged, Shivaji flag torn. Angry protests lead to clashes, 5 injured. Police file FIRs, boost patrols. BJP & AIMIM react. #Hyderabad #TempleVandalism pic.twitter.com/OWnSEcCszq
— Roots of History™ (@RootsofHistory) January 15, 2026
Law enforcement from the Kamatipura police station acted swiftly, filing FIRs (First Information Reports) against both the original vandals and members of the violent mob. Senior officials, including Tafseer Iqbal, were present to manage the crisis. They helped disperse the crowd, restored part of a damaged idol, and increased police patrols in the area. By morning, calm was largely restored.
The incident quickly drew political reactions. Leaders from the BJP condemned the act, calling it part of a troubling pattern under the current state government. Meanwhile, AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi appealed for peace and urged citizens to let the police investigation proceed without interference.
The police have launched a full probe to identify and arrest those responsible for the initial vandalism and the subsequent violence.
Which temple in Hyderabad was vandalized?
The vandalism targeted a Hindu temple located near the historic Puranapul Darwaza in Hyderabad on the night of January 14, 2026.
What was damaged in the temple vandalism?
Unidentified vandals damaged deity idols inside the temple and also tore down a Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj flag.
Were there any injuries after the temple vandalism?
Yes, five people were injured, including police officers, when angry crowds clashed with police, pelted stones, and targeted a nearby Muslim shrine and graves.
What action have the police taken?
The Kamatipura police have filed FIRs against the unknown vandals and against the violent mob. Senior officials increased patrols to restore calm.
What has been the political reaction to the incident?
BJP leaders condemned the act, while AIMIM's Asaduddin Owaisi called for peace and urged the public to allow the police investigation to proceed.
