BJP Youth Wing Workers Vandalise Congress Office in Mumbai, Leading to 14 Detentions

Bharatiya Janata Party Yuva Morcha (BJYM) members vandalised a Congress office in Mumbai, accusing the party of disrespecting Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar. The incident occurred at Azad Maidan, where protesters damaged furniture and tore posters. Police detained 14 individuals involved in the disturbance. Ink was also thrown at posters of Congress leaders during the protest, which police eventually controlled.

Police Response and Detentions

The BJYM workers were taken to Azad Maidan police station after being detained. There, they clashed with Congress supporters. Later that night, BJYM activists gathered outside the police station to protest but were dispersed by authorities. An official confirmed that the situation had calmed down following police intervention.

Legal Actions and Complaints

Mandar Pawar, a Congress office-bearer, filed a complaint against BJYM's Tejinder Tiwana and 30 to 40 other youth wing members. An FIR was registered under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Bombay Police Act for unlawful assembly and rioting. These legal actions were initiated based on the complaint lodged by Pawar.

Congress Leaders' Reactions

Congress MP Varsha Gaikwad criticised the BJP for the vandalism. She accused them of resorting to violence whenever Dr Ambedkar's name is mentioned. Gaikwad stated, "This is what the BJP and Sangh Parivar have always done when they have heard Babasaheb's name - attack and vandalism." She condemned the actions as an attempt to divert attention from Amit Shah's controversial statement.

The BJYM protest followed accusations by Congress leaders against Union Home Minister Amit Shah. They claimed Shah insulted Ambedkar during a speech in the Rajya Sabha. This accusation led to heightened tensions between the two parties, culminating in the vandalism incident.

Gaikwad further demanded strict action from Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis against those responsible for the vandalism. She questioned the political decorum in Maharashtra, calling it shameful. Gaikwad also mentioned that legal proceedings would be pursued against those involved in damaging their property.

The incident highlights ongoing tensions between political parties in Maharashtra. The clash over comments made about Dr Ambedkar has escalated into physical confrontations and legal battles. Both parties continue to exchange accusations, reflecting deep-seated political rivalries in the state.