Stones, Tear Gas Fly as BJP-Shiv Sena UBT Workers Clash in Ratnagiri

Political tensions escalated in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, when BJP and Shiv Sena UBT workers clashed after stones were pelted on former MP Nilesh Ranes car. The incident sparked violence, leading to the use of tear gas by police to restore order.

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Tensions flared in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, on Friday as Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Shiv Sena UBT workers engaged in a violent clash. The incident was sparked by an attack on former Member of Parliament (MP) Nilesh Rane's car, resulting in the police resorting to tear gas shells to restore order.

Stones Pelted on Nilesh Rane's Car

Nilesh Rane, the son of Union Minister Narayan Rane, was en route to address a rally in Guhagar when his car came under attack near Patpanhale College. According to an official, stones were allegedly hurled at Rane's vehicle, prompting a confrontation between his supporters and those of Shiv Sena UBT leader Bhaskar Jadhav.

Tear Gas Shells Fired to Control Situation

As the situation escalated, the police intervened and fired tear gas shells to disperse the unruly crowd and bring the situation under control. The clash resulted in damage to several cars, although no injuries have been reported thus far. The Guhagar police station has initiated the process of registering a First Information Report (FIR) to investigate the incident.

Deputy CM Condemns Attack

Reacting to the incident, Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed strong disapproval of such cowardly attacks. He criticized the actions of certain individuals, suggesting that their behavior reflects frustration. Fadnavis assured that appropriate action would be taken in response to the Ratnagiri incident.

Political Rivalry in Konkan Region

The clash between BJP and Shiv Sena UBT workers highlights the ongoing political rivalry in the Konkan region. Nilesh Rane's brother, Nitesh Rane, serves as a BJP MLA from Kankvali and is a close associate of Deputy CM Fadnavis. Recent viral videos have shown Bhaskar Jadhav, the MLA from Guhagar, ridiculing Union Minister Narayan Rane, further fueling tensions between the two parties.

The clash in Ratnagiri underscores the need for political parties to engage in constructive dialogue and refrain from resorting to violence. Such incidents not only disrupt public order but also erode public trust in the democratic process. It is crucial for political leaders to prioritize the well-being of citizens and work towards fostering a peaceful and harmonious society.