Special Correspondent
Nashik: Tensions flared in Nashik’s Kathe Galli area as violent protests broke out during the demolition of an unauthorized Dargah early this morning. According to officials, stone-pelting incidents occurred late last night before the demolition began, injuring 31 police personnel and damaging multiple vehicles.
The Nashik Municipal Corporation had issued a demolition notice on April 1, following a court order, asking for the structure to be voluntarily removed within 15 days. The Dargah had been listed among unauthorized religious structures in the city. As the deadline passed, the municipal team, backed by a police force of nearly 500 personnel, began the demolition process at dawn.
However, violence erupted when a mob of over 400 people gathered to oppose the action. According to Deputy Commissioner of Police Kiran Kumar Chavan, attempts were made to pacify the crowd, including intervention from Dargah trustees and respected local citizens, but to no avail. The mob pelted stones at the officials, injuring police and damaging three police vehicles. In retaliation, the police used mild force and tear gas to bring the situation under control.
The mob reportedly became more aggressive when the area’s electricity supply was interrupted. False rumors regarding the religious site spread quickly, escalating the tension. In response, police detained 15 individuals and seized 57 suspicious motorcycles from the site. Commissioner of Police Sandeep Karnik confirmed that efforts to arrest the remaining culprits are ongoing.
This is not the first time tensions have escalated over the same structure. A similar incident had occurred on February 22 when the authorities attempted a demolition amid heavy police presence, resulting in unrest as hundreds gathered in protest.
Currently, the situation remains under control, and the demolition process is proceeding under strict security. Authorities have urged the public to avoid believing in rumors and to maintain peace in the region.
