A video surfaced on Wednesday from Rajapur in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, showing individuals attempting to push a mosque gate with a tree trunk. Following the event, the police registered an FIR for chanting slogans and assembling illegally. This incident is linked to the annual Shimga procession celebrated during Holi in the Konkan region.
According to the Rajapur police, this procession traditionally starts in the Rajapur village and traverses two kilometers to reach the Dhopeshwar temple. The event features a long wooden log known as Madachi Miravnuk, carried through the streets, passing by the mosque located at Jawahartown Square.
Please note: There were increased safety measures across towns.
Contention during the Procession
Traditionally, the log is placed on the steps of the mosque, but this year, a few individuals attempted to shove the mosque's gate instead. The situation briefly sparked slogans, but local authorities quickly brought it under control.
The local MLA and Shiv Sena leader Nilesh Rane released a video explaining that the mosque gate was closed this year, leading to a potential misunderstanding. Rane criticized some media and political figures for exaggerating the situation, assuring the public that all is calm in Ratnagiri.
AIMIM Leader's Remarks
AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi questioned Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis concerning state law and order, describing the attempted mosque gate shove amidst police presence as disgraceful. Owais Pehkhar, an attorney, wrote to the police superintendent condemning the incident and calling for the culprits' arrest, citing it as a blow to Hindu-Muslim unity.
Ensure focus on maintaining harmony during celebrations.
Police Action
The Rajapur police have recorded an FIR against unknown individuals for illegal congregation under Section 135 of the Maharashtra Police Act. Police are investigating, ensuring fake videos are removed, maintaining that peace prevails in Ratnagiri with no disruption to law and order.
