Communal tensions rise in Kolhapur over a controversial social media post
- In Reports
- 07:09 PM, Jun 07, 2023
- Myind Staff
Communal tensions rise in Kolhapur, Maharashtra after clashes were sparked by a contentious social media post. Extra police, SRPF, and RAF teams were deployed to maintain order and prevent further escalation.
The root cause of the conflict can be traced back to a social media post that depicted a glorification of Mughal ruler Aurangzeb. The post featured images of people celebrating while holding posters of Aurangzeb and Tipu Sultan. The contentious content immediately drew the attention of right-wing organizations, prompting them to call for a town-wide bandh, or shutdown, as a form of protest against the post.
In response to the bandh call, a considerable number of individuals associated with these right-wing groups gathered at Shivaji Chowk, determined to enforce the shutdown. However, the situation quickly turned violent, with clashes erupting between the protesters and the police. To restore order, the police resorted to lathi charges, using batons to disperse the agitated crowd.
Speaking about the incident, Maharashtra's Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, acknowledged the government's responsibility to uphold law and order in the state. He called for peace and tranquility among the public, assuring that a thorough investigation was underway. Shinde emphasized that appropriate action would be taken against those found guilty of instigating violence.
Echoing the Chief Minister's sentiments, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned the glorification of Aurangzeb and stressed that such acts would not be tolerated. Fadnavis pledged a detailed inquiry into the matter, vowing to identify those responsible for orchestrating the unrest.
Expressing his concern, Fadnavis drew attention to the simultaneous glorification of Aurangzeb in various districts of Maharashtra. He questioned the coincidental nature of these events, suggesting that they were part of a broader trend that needed to be addressed promptly.
As the situation in Kolhapur remains tense, authorities are working tirelessly to restore peace and stability to the town. In addition to conducting investigations into the clashes, they are taking necessary actions to hold accountable those responsible for inciting violence.
Image source: India News
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