NCP MLA Jitendra Awhad's Vehicle Targeted Over Remarks Against Sambhaji Chhatrapati

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) SP MLA Jitendra Awhad's vehicle was attacked on Thursday by a group of individuals. The incident occurred in south Mumbai when Awhad was about to take the Eastern Freeway from the CSMT area to Thane. The attackers, numbering three to four, struck the rear of his SUV with sticks and threw a stone.

The assailants also chanted slogans supporting former Rajya Sabha MP Sambhaji Chhatrapati before fleeing the scene. A Dongri police station official confirmed that an investigation into the attack is ongoing. Later that evening, some NCP SP activists were detained for blocking the Eastern Express Highway in Thane in protest against the attack on Awhad.

Protests and Detentions

Among those detained during the protest was NCP SP city unit chief Suhas Desai. The roadblock was lifted shortly after, according to a Thane police official. This incident follows Awhad's recent criticism of Sambhaji Chhatrapati over violence at Vishalgad fort in Kolhapur last month during an anti-encroachment drive.

Awhad had previously commented on the violence at Vishalgad fort, which erupted on July 14. Members of right-wing groups, led by Sambhaji Chhatrapati, were stopped at the fort's base for violating prohibitory orders. The opposition has claimed that the anti-encroachment drive targeted a specific community.

Political Tensions

Speaking to reporters, Awhad mentioned that Kolhapur MP Shahu Chhatrapati, Sambhaji Chhatrapati's father, was unhappy with the violence. "If Sambhaji Chhatrapati is a descendant by birth, I am a descendant by ideology," Awhad stated. His remarks have sparked significant controversy and tension within political circles.

Awhad also criticised Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's claim of meeting BJP's central leadership in Delhi in disguise. He remarked, "You are after power to such an extent that you feel the need to change your appearance and name. This is mockery of national security." These comments reflect ongoing political strife and accusations among leaders.

Criticism of BJP

The NCP SP also attacked the BJP over recent statements against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. They asserted that "the country and its soil was the caste of the Lok Sabha leader of opposition." This statement underscores the deep-rooted political rivalries and ongoing debates over leadership and national identity.

The investigation into the attack on Awhad continues as authorities seek to identify and apprehend those responsible. The incident highlights the volatile nature of political discourse and actions in India today.