Bulldozers Demolish Illegal Stalls in Thane After Communal Clash

In the aftermath of a communal clash in Naya Nagar, Thane, authorities swiftly demolished illegal roadside stalls with bulldozers, deploying a substantial police force to maintain order.

In the aftermath of a communal clash that occurred two days ago in the Naya Nagar area of Maharashtra's Thane district, the civic body took action on Tuesday to demolish illegal roadside stalls using bulldozers. A substantial police presence, including a Rapid Action Force (RAF) team, was deployed in the area to prevent any further disturbances.

Strict Action Against Rioters

The demolition drive by the Mira Bhaindar Municipal Corporation came a day after Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who holds the Home portfolio, issued a stern warning of strict action against rioters. Videos capturing the razing of the stalls have garnered significant attention on social media platforms.

Communal Clash During Vehicle Rally

The communal clash erupted during a vehicle rally organized in Naya Nagar, a predominantly Muslim-dominated locality in Thane district, on Sunday night. The incident occurred just a day before the consecration of Lord Ram's idol in the Ayodhya temple. A mob armed with iron rods, sticks, and bats engaged in religious sloganeering and assaulted an individual whose car was part of a procession consisting of three vehicles and ten two-wheelers. The mob also vandalized the car with stones and sticks.

Police Action and Arrests

In response to the incident, the police registered a case of attempted murder against 50-60 individuals and apprehended 13 of them. The police official confirmed the arrests and the ongoing investigation.

BJP MLA Nitesh Rane's Visit and Allegations

On Tuesday, BJP MLA Nitesh Rane visited Naya Nagar and interacted with reporters. He expressed strong criticism of the Mira Bhayandar Vasai Virar (MBVV) Police for their perceived inaction in controlling the communal disturbances on Sunday night. Rane asserted that the inaction of the police tarnished the image of Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis and the state government.

Rane emphasized the need for prompt handling of such situations by the police and reassured Hindus that they need not fear as the state Home Minister, Fadnavis, is a staunch Hindutvavadi. He further stated that Fadnavis is closely monitoring the situation.

Upcoming Legislature Session and Concerns

Rane indicated that this issue would be raised in the upcoming session of the legislature. He expressed concerns about the extreme fear experienced by members of the Hindu community in Naya Nagar and alleged instances of girls being converted.

Demand for Barricades Removal

Rane issued a demand for the removal of barricades erected by the police in the locality within 24 hours, threatening to take action if his demand is not met.

Warning Against Objectionable Content

In light of the incidents, the local police issued a warning late Tuesday night to administrators and members of WhatsApp groups. They cautioned against sending or forwarding objectionable videos, photos, or using statuses that could potentially hurt the sentiments of any caste or community.