Tensions prevailed in Maharashtra’s Kolhapur city Wednesday following violent protests and stone pelting during a bandh called by pro-Hindutva outfits seeking action against objectionable social media posts reportedly glorifying Mughal emperor Aurangzeb and 18th-century Mysore ruler Tipu Sultan.
According to the news agency, at least 36 people have so far been arrested, and multiple cases have been registered in connection with the violence.
Kolhapur district police officials said that a large number of people belonging to various right-wing organizations had gathered at Chhatrapati Shivaji Chowk in Kolhapur to protest against social media posts showing an image of 18th-century Mysore ruler Tipu Sultan and Mughal rules Aurangazeb, accompanied by an objectionable slogan. While the outfits had called for a bandh in Kolhapur city, a protest was also held.
According to the Kolhapur District Superintendent of Police, after the protest was over, “some miscreants resorted to stone pelting”. “We responded to this situation quickly because significant police deployment had been made at the spot. We had to use force to control the mob…We are closely monitoring the situation,” he said.
In view of the protest, internet services have been suspended. According to the news agency, personnel from the State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) have been deployed in Kohlapur. Prohibitory orders have been issued till June 19 banning the assembly of five or more persons.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde appealed for calm and said nobody should take the law into their hands. “Anyone taking the law into their hands will not be spared. I am in touch with the local administration, and the necessary directives have been given. The welfare of the common man is our topmost priority,” Shinde said.
Meanwhile, NCP chief Sharad Pawar claimed “religious color” was being given to some small issues and the ruling parties are encouraging such things, which he said is a cause of concern.
Soon after the violence, Maharashtra minister Deepak Kesarkar held a meeting with several social organizations in Kolhapur. Kesarkar, who is also Kolhapur district guardian minister, has urged local residents to maintain peace. A positive picture emerged at the meeting and it will show direction to the entire state,” Kesarkar told reporters after the meet, the news agency reported.
The Kolhapur police launched a probe into social media messages.
(With inputs from agencies)
