Special Correspondent
Thane: A day marked for political agitation by the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) witnessed significant preemptive police action as several top party leaders and workers were taken into custody. The Mira-Bhayandar police denied permission for the MNS protest march and issued notices under Section 163 to several leaders, citing potential threats to law and order.
Prominent among those detained include MNS Thane District President Avinash Jadhav, Palghar Lok Sabha President Jayendra Patil, former corporator Praful Patil, and Vasai-Virar City President Pravin Bhoir. Police forces in Mira-Bhayandar, Vasai, Virar, and Nalasopara reportedly began detentions as early as 3 AM, picking up local office bearers and key party functionaries from their homes.
According to police sources, the detentions were conducted to prevent possible unrest and communal tension, especially in light of recent incidents in the region. A few days ago, a Gujarati businessman was allegedly assaulted in Mira-Bhayandar, following which MNS had announced a protest march to respond to what it described as targeted provocation and growing linguistic tensions in the state.
The police, however, refused to allow the MNS march, citing potential for public disorder. In response, precautionary action was initiated, and several leaders were served with notices under Section 163, restricting them from assembling or entering sensitive areas.
Senior MNS leaders Sandeep Deshpande and former MLA Raju Patil were also issued formal notices banning their entry into the Mira-Bhayandar area. The notice to Sandeep Deshpande specifically stated that he has 14 criminal cases registered across various police stations, and his presence could aggravate tensions.
The notice highlighted concerns about:
Potential escalation of linguistic conflict between Marathi and Hindi-speaking communities,
Threats to public safety and private property,
Possibility of communal tension and public unrest.
Police say the decision to detain leaders preemptively was taken to preserve law and order and avoid repeat incidents like the alleged assault on the Gujarati businessman, which had sparked outrage across political circles.
MNS, however, strongly criticized the police action, alleging that the administration is trying to stifle democratic dissent. “This is not just about a march — it’s about the right to raise the voice of Marathi people. This suppression only shows fear,” said an MNS spokesperson.
The situation in Mira-Bhayandar remains tense but under control. Heavy police deployment has been observed in key junctions of the city, and Section 144 is likely to be imposed if unrest is anticipated.
