On January 21, a clash between two communities occurred during a vehicle rally on the outskirts of Mumbai, leading to the arrest of 13 persons and the detention of 4 minors. The clash occurred in Naya Nagar, Mira Bhayender, where a group of 10-12 people organized a rally, chanting slogans to praise Lord Ram. The rally, held ahead of the scheduled Ram Mandir Pran Pratistha ceremony in Ayodhya, triggered a dispute when a group of Muslims objected to firecrackers being burst and the use of proactive songs and slogans during the event.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said a “zero tolerance” approach towards those disrupting law and order. He said, “There will be zero tolerance against anyone who tries to take the law into their own hands and attempts to disturb the law & order situation in Maharashtra.” Fadnavis also assured that strict action would be taken against the culprits.
Shrikant Pathak, DCP Mira Bhayandar, commented on the ongoing investigation, saying, “We are investigating the incident. Action will be taken against the accused only…I appeal to everybody to maintain peace…The police have taken timely action.”
Fadnavis said that 13 persons have been arrested so far, and a detailed analysis of CCTV footage is underway to identify and apprehend others involved in the incident.
