The meeting between the Mr. Saxena and the delegation went on for 20 minutes, wherein the ADG gave the members of the delegations a patient hearing and time, assuring the people that he will look into the grievances and take appropriate action. Through the memorandum, the delegation has provided the senior officer with a timeline of the incidents that took place in Vishalgad as well as the Gajapur village on July 14, highlighting the role that certain anti-social element played in the eruption of communal violence. The memorandum, which also included the details of the FIR filed by the Kolhapur police, urged Mr. Saxena to ensure fairness into the investigation being conducted and to take action against those involved in the violence as well as those who conspired to create disharmony and public disorder in the area.

While submitting the memorandum, the members emphasised on the biased investigation taking place, resulting in kingpins of this violence not being arrested even after the passing of two weeks since the eruption of violence. In addition to this, the delegation also brought to the notice of attention of Mr. Saxena about an attempt to vitiate the atmosphere. Contents of posts circulating on social media, which were of provocative nature and instigated people to take law into their hands.

What does the memorandum state?

Specially referring to the targeted violence that took place in Gajapur village, wherein 40-50 houses of Muslim were burnt, their vehicles destroyed and a Mosque was demolished, the memorandum provided that “A violent mob broke into the mosque and set it on fire the mosque was heavily damaged. The entire area came under the attacks by the mob, particularly the Muslim houses in the neighbourhood. Gas cylinders were exploded with the intention of destroying the houses and valuable items were looted by the mob. Sir, the said incidents of inter-connected violence went on for almost two to three hours, but no arrests were made by the police officers who were reportedly present on the spot.”

In addition to this, the memorandum provided that “As per FIR number Crime Reg.No.224/2024, it was Sambhaji Raje Chhatrapati, who came to the foothills of Vishalgad at 1:30 PM, and it was reportedly he who had incited the mob by giving a provocative speech and shouting slogans. It was the said mob that then had then ransacked and looted the shops at the foothill. Four-wheeler and two-wheeler motorcycle standing there were vandalized and thrown into the valley in the presence of an inactive police.”

Based on the said details, the delegation through the memorandum wanted to seek accountability and justice over the said incident. According to them, the said Vishalgarh and Gajapur violence are the result of inexcusable lapses, even complicity by the police and revenue administration, and the investigation that has taken place till now is lax. The delegation had also highlighted the three inadequate FIRs filed by the police in regards to the violence, which has failed to use the necessary provisions required under law to hold the perpetrators accountable.

The demands raised through the memorandum:

The delegation, through the memorandum as well as the meeting, emphasised upon the atmosphere of fear and terror that the said incident created for the minority community, who are now left feeling like that they are not safe in their own countries, which is definitely harmful to a healthy democracy like India. The delegation urged for the immediate arrest action against all the concerned nuisance elements as only then will justice be ensured to the victims and any such future attempts to create disharmony will be deterred.

Hence, the main demand raised by the delegation was of the immediate suspension of district police chief Mahendra Pandit and a departmental inquiry against Tehsildar and Police Inspector of Shahuwadi for failing to take relevant actions on that fateful day and protecting the victims against the mob.

The memorandum provided “Therefore, keeping in mind the seriousness of the incident, we would also request the top echelons of the Maharashtra police to set up a SIT within the jurisdiction of top police officers to ensure intrepid, autonomous and independent investigation and take strict action against the offenders, even if they are persons in uniform. We also urge that the Maharashtra police opens channels of communication with local leaders of the affected and other communities, facilitates dialogue and finds a lasting, lawful durable solution to such deliberately fomented conflicts that disturb social harmony.”

The signatories to the said memorandum were Teesta Setalvad (Secretary, Citizens for Justice and Peace), Dolphy Dsouza, Dr. Frazer Mascarenhas S.J and Shakir Tamboli.

The complete memorandum can be read:

The post Kolhapur Violence: Citizens’ delegation meets with ADG (Law and Order), Mumbai, call for swift and fair justice appeared first on SabrangIndia.

For context, the Vishalgad-Kolhapur violence that erupted on July 14 has left multiple Muslim families of the Gajapur village helpless and distraught, with not even a pair of clothes to change during the rainy reason. On July 14, a Sunday, disturbing visuals of a Mosque being demolished emerged from Maharashtra’s Kolhapur district. A video from the ground showed a group of men belonging to an extremist Hindutva mob climbing atop a Mosque holding saffron flags and vandalising a Mosque with hammers. The video showed mobs of people standing upon the Mosque and planting a saffron flag on it. While the police rushed to the spot of the mob demolition to get a hold of the situation as the Mosque was being demolished, a mob of thousands entered the Gajapur village and wreaked havoc. As per on-ground reports, the Gajapur village was the worst violence hit village during the whole incident with approximately 50-60 houses and shops belonging to the Muslim community were attacked, torched and loot by the mob. 

Detailed reports of the violence and the plight of the people of Gajapur can be accessed here and here.

Tamboli has provided that a copy of the memorandum that he had, with a group of locals from Gajapur village and Vishalgad area, submitted to the District Collector. The said memorandum had been submitted to the Collector on July 15, one day post the eruption of the violence. Through the said memorandum, Tamboli has majorly raised a total of four issues. The first issue raised by him through the memorandum is that the encroachment drive that has been initiated, and is ongoing, be paused till the rainy season is going on. As per multiple media reports, the protest called on by Sambhaji Raje had only been called off after an assurance by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde that action will be taken against illegal encroachments in the fort. It had also been reported that following the violent incident on Sunday, about 35 illegal shops were razed by authorities on Monday on the orders of CM Shinde who arrived in Kolhapur on Sunday night. Additionally, it had been highlighted by Tamboli that these alleged “encroachments” consist of shops of certain vendors and structures, the removal of which no one is contesting. But the same should not be done during the rainy season. 

In addition to this, as the second demand, Tamboli has asked the authorities to ensure that the people who will be rendered homeless after the encroachment drive is conducted should be provided with adequate rehabilitation, as is the legal norm. 

The third demand raised by the Tamboli was regarding a judicial high-level inquiry into theviolence that took place in the Gajapur village as well as the demolition of the Mosque. 

It is crucial to note that a letter demanding judicial inquiry into the Vishalgad violence was also sent by Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar on July 18 to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. In the said letter, the leader of opposition in the state assembly claimed that anti-social elements targeted a particular community in the name of removing encroachment in Vishalgad. “The violence at Gazapur in Vishalgad was government-sponsored,” Wadettiwar had alleged in his letter, urging for the main culprit to be unmasked, as per The Print.

It is further essential to point out that Wadettiwar had also addressed a press conference wherein he had claimed that the targeted violence against Muslim in Gajapur was the result of the ground was slipping under the feet of communal forces after the victory of a candidate upholding progressive values in the Lok Sabha polls in Kolhapur.

“The violence was engineered keeping in mind the upcoming assembly elections. Those indulging in violence cannot be followers of Chhatrapati Shivaji. Hence, the government must find out who are the culprits,” he had said.

In addition to the same, the Congress leader had accused the police of inaction while the violence was on. Tamboli had previously highlighted how the Superintendent of Police was present a mere one kilometre away when the violence was taking place in Gajapur, which also left 40 Muslims, including children, injured. Wadettiwar also claimed that the issue of encroachment could have been resolved through dialogue, but the government did not want that to happen. 

Lastly, the fourth demand that was raised by Tamboli in his memorandum was that the superintendent of police, Mahendra Pandit, be transferred be suspended as it was under his charge, that the present incident of targeted violence had taken place. Tamboli also stated that the failure of the SP in containing communal incidents is evident as in the past one year itself, this was second such major incident where Muslims had been targeted. According to him, it was the failure on the part of the police authorities that a mob in thousands, armed with weapons, had run freely and burnt down houses, vehicles and shops that belonged to Muslims. 

The complete memorandum can be read here.

While speaking to SabrangIndia, Tamboli had also highlighted that prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the erstwhile Code of Criminal Procedure are still in place, and police is still deployed in the area. The police present there is preventing any aid, provided by certain non-government organisations, from reaching the affected people. The families whose houses have been burned down by the mob are left with nothing, and yet the police are not allowing for any aid to be provided to the persons affected. As provided by Tamboli, the authorities are ensuring that the affected Muslim families are harassed even after suffering through the violence. Tamboli stated that “the police failed to do anything before, but now they are harassing the people by not letting us give them ration and not letting us meet them. it was only after talking to the Collector and arguing with the police for atleast two hours was I allowed to meet them before. I will go and meet the IG today and raise this issue with him.”

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The post Opposition leaders, activists demand suspension of SP, Kolhapur and judicial inquiry into Vishal-gad Kolhapur violence appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Activists from the ground have now shared the plight of the locals of the Gajapur village, the worst violence hit village during the whole incident, wherein the women and children had to flee towards the nearby forest area and the fields to save themselves from the large mob of people. As told by Megha Pansare to SabrangIndia, fearing violence, the locals had to hide in the forest along with their children as the mob came bearing knives and other weapons. It is only because the locals went into hiding rather than trying to save their belonging were they able to save themselves. However, as per the report in Maktoob Media, at least 40 Muslims, including children, were attacked in the incident. Additionally, the mob caused major damage to their material belongings, with their houses burnt, food thrown or destroyed, and vehicles ransacked. Upon returning from their hiding spots, the residents of the village that is on the foothills of the fort, found themselves rid of all their belongings, houses, vehicles, books, and food. As per Pansare, activist and daughter-in-law of the slain Govind Pansare, the women do not even have a pair of clothes and everything they owned had been destroyed. Even the holy book of Quran has been destroyed and thrown in the mud. Megha Pansare is Assistant Professor in Russian language at the Shivaji University, Kolhapur. She is also an activist of CPI, now holds the position of President, Kolhapur District, National Federation of Indian Women (NFIW).

How did it begin?

Since the past one year, a campaign is being run by the certain Hindu right-wing outfits to “free” the historic Vishalgad fort of “encroachment”. Calling it ‘Vishalgad Anti-Encroachment Movement,’ Sambhaji Raje Chhatrapati, former Rajya Sabha MP and descendant of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and his supporters in Kolhapur have been mounting pressure on authorities to remove “illegal encroachments” at the Vishalgad fort.

The violence erupted after former Rajya Sabha MP Sambhaji Raje called upon his supporters to march to the Vishalgarh fort in a bid to protest against the inaction of the authorities over illegal encroachments on Sunday, July 14. The fort is located in Shahuwadi of Kolhapur district, about 75 kms from Kolhapur city.

As clarified by Shakir Tamboli, a member of the Indian National Congress and an activist, thousands of people had gathered after the call against “encroachment” was made by Sambhaji Raje. The police present near the fort did not allow such a big gathering to take to the Vishalgad Fort, pursuant to which the mob that was returning from the Fort resorted to violence.

As per the report in Maktoob Media, ahead of Sambhajiraje’s arrival at the fort around 9:40 am, a mob of his supporters had already started with stone-pelting on a mosque, Rehman Malik Dargah, and attacking local Muslim residents in the vicinity. Some vandals also allegedly chanted ‘Jai Shri Ram’ outside the mosque and raised objectionable slogans. It is essential to note that the said Mosque was on the way to Vishalgad fort, but was 6 km away from the fort.

The Maktoob Media report also alleged that the attack against Muslims occurred in police presence. As per the videos accessed by Maktoob Media, a few police personnel were deployed to guard the place to stop the Hindutva mob but were unable to do anything. After the attack on the Mosque, some of the residents then reportedly retaliated, following which the situation went out of control.

A detailed report can be read here.

The Gajapur village and the targeted Muslim families:

As per both Tamboli, as the police got busy with controlling the situation near the demolished Mosque, a mob in large numbers took to Gajapur village and targeted the Muslim families living there. Tamboli called the said violent attack to be “carefully planned in advance”, stating that the conspiracy was hatched by Hindu extremists under the guise of removing encroachments from the Vishalgad fort. A few names were mentioned by Tamboli, which included habitual hate-offenders Vikram Pawaskar and Sambhaji Bhide, who were involved in this conspiracy to target the Muslim houses in the Gajapur area. Tamboli provided that Pawaskar and Bhide had pre-planned this attack and had sheltered the goons a night before in a village called Pandharepani. On the morning, the mob had, armed with weapons, left with the ambition to attack the Muslims in Gajapur village. Tamboli even alleged that the mob had carried handmade bombs.

It Is essential to point out that the Gajapur village houses and shop are not under any contestation regarding any illegality. The said village was a part of the anti-encroachment drive being led by Sambhaji Raje.

Pansare, who was on ground meeting the affected people after the violence took place, shared with the SabrangIndia team the motivation that could have been behind the attack on the Gajapur village and the Muslim residents of the said village. Pansare provided that locals have alleged the issue of an inter-faith marriage between a Musim man from the Gajapur village and a Hindu woman from the neighbouring village to be the reason why the said village was singled out. Pansare stated that the marriage between the inter-faith couple had annoyed the relatives of the girl, especially the uncle of the girl, who then led the mob to the said village. Tamboli too confirmed that the inter-faith marriage between the couple had irked a few Hindu extremists and had caused an issue.  Pansare stated that the locals want a separate FIR to be filed against the said man for his role in the violent episode, which had not yet happened.

Pansare focussed on the plight of the families following the violence. She stated how journalists, activist as well as delegations of the politicians from approaching the area. Pansare questioned the deployment of police personnel after the violence in the Gajapur, which is now stopping anyone, even the family members of those affected, form approaching the violence hit area and providing any aid to the people. She highlighted the decimated state of the houses after the mob unleashed the violence, and the people having to survive with no food and clothes. Pansare slammed the state for stopped the flow of aid by stating that “The mob has done all that it wanted with free reign, what else can they do now? Why is there police deployment in the area? Why are they stopping the flow of aid?”

Pansare provided that a delegation of politicians from the INDIA bloc parties had visited the violence-hit Vishalgad and nearby villages on July 16 and, with much difficulty and argument with the police over one hour, have been able to supply the affected families with ration that will last for one week. The delegation consisting for nearly 100 office-bearers was led by Kolhapur MP Shahu Chhatrapati, the 12^th descendant of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and Congress MLC Satej Patil. The police had stopped the delegation at the Pandhare Pani area citing prohibitory orders. However, the party workers requested the police to allow a delegation of 15 key INDIA bloc functionaries to visit to families affected by the violence.

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Pansare provided that the delegation also men with the district collector, Amol Yedage, to speak regarding the violence as well as police refusing journalists, families and delegations from meeting the affected people. While addressing the media, MP Shahu Chhatrapati had said that “In the past year, such violence has taken place twice in Kolhapur, which is otherwise known for communal harmony. I believe there is a conspiracy to disrupt peace in Kolhapur. We will stay firmly with people who faced the brunt of violence and protect them at any cost, irrespective of caste and community.”

When asked about the injuries that the men, women and children sustained, Pansare stated that another delegation will be going in the evening to meet the people as they police had made it difficult for the delegation to meet with the people. She narrated how the women were forced to flee to the forest through back doors and save their lives. She alleged that the locals had narrated certain incidents of the mob clicking pictures of young women, stating that she will get more information from the family after meeting them again.

It Is essential to note that the INDIA alliance politicians will be holding a ‘Shivshahu Sadbhavana’ rally in Kolhapur city — from Shahu Memorial to Shivaji Chowk — on the evening of July 18 to condemn the violence.

The mute spectators:

Tamboli emphasised on the failure of police authorities in the enfolding of this violence. He stated that while the violence was taking place in Gajapur village, the Superintendent of Police was present not even one kilometre away. And yet, the mob ran wild by setting fire to houses, vehicles and destroying properties.

Tamboli highlighted that in the past one year, this was the second major incident of violence that had been reported from Kolhapur. For content, in June of 2023, tensions had simmered in Kolhapur, in southern Maharashtra, after Hindutva groups and representatives of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), had created a controversy over social media post (June 6) valorising Aurangzeb and Tipu Sultan. a group of Hindutva inspired extremist youth thrashed a Muslim minor for reportedly sharing a social media status hailing Aurangzeb and Tipu Sultan. The status (social media) simply valorised Aurangzeb and Tipu and did not in any way attack another community or contain any words to offend or hurt the religious sentiments of any individual. Right-wing Hindu organisations had organized the rally to protest the said post. However, once the rally had concluded, certain miscreants began pelting stones at homes and business establishments owned by the Muslim community and attacking their vehicles. The police had to use lathi charge to disperse the restive crowd. (the detailed report can be read here.)

Condemning the violence that the Muslim residents were subjected to, Tamboli re-iterated the loss that the people of Gajapur village suffered at the hands of a mob that was allowed to run without any care for consequences. Referring to the issue of encroachment on Vishalgad fort, Tamboli stated that the report of the government has provided that some 160 illegal encroachments are there on the Vishalgad fort, and no one is protesting against the removal of any encroaching structures on the fort. However, the violence that was unleashed in Gajapur was separate, and was done under the guise of the anti-encroachment protest.

Speaking to SabrangIndia, Tamboli stated “You need to understand that both of these issues are separate. No one is asking the state to not remove any illegal structures. Bu the people of Gajapur had relevant documents. Even the Mosque that these people demolished was not encroachment. What happened in Gajapur was different from the Vishalgad encroachment issue. This was targeted violence, through which they want to make the state of Maharashtra Muslim free.”

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Deeming both the incidents, especially the recent one, to be pre-planned, Tamboli stated that these are attempts made to target the Muslims living in the state. Tamboli alleged that inflammatory social media post were being circulated both prior to the violence, instigating the people gathering for the anti-encroachment protest to demolish the Mosque, but no action was being taken.

 

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Tamboli’s major demand was to seek the transfer of superintendent of police Mahendra Pandit, under whose charge both the incidents of violence had taken place. He accused the police authorities of negligence. In addition to this, Tamboli also demanded the suspension of Sunil Phulari, Special IG of Kolhapur. He stated that a memorandum seeking the said demands will be submitted to the DGP of Maharashtra, Rashmi Shukla.

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Violence, vandalism and arson in Kolhapur, Muslim houses and mosque targeted by mob that had gathered on the call of former RS MP Sambhaji Raje Chhatrapati

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The post Post violence follow-up in Gajapur village of Kolhapur shows Muslims families left with no food, shelter or vehicles, activists blame authorities of being mute spectators appeared first on SabrangIndia.

This planned program is reportedly being implemented in various educational institutions, targeting teachers by deliberately inciting students on religious grounds, putting pressure on the management of educational institutions and disrupting the harmonious educational environment. None of this would have come to light but for the senior women activists from various organisations, who put together the fact-finding report under the umbrella organization, “Women Protest for Peace” (WPFP).

This group, consisting of educators and gender rights’ activists, visited all the educational institutions, spoke to all the protagonists and then compiled the report which was submitted to the District Collector, Rahul Rekhawar, and last week. All these are important institutions in this area, particularly because boys and girls of the Bahujan community are able to avail of higher education; these are conclusions of an all-woman fact-finding team that made available its report to SabrangIndia recently.

The concerned institutions are:

1. Kolhapur Institute of Technology (KIT), Gokul Shirgaon, Kolhapur
2. Vivekananda Institutes of Education:
3. Vivekananda College, Kolhapur
4. Dattajirao Kadam Arts, Science and Commerce College, Ichalkaranji
5. Seventh-day Adventist School, Kolhapur
6. Rayat Shikshan Sanstha:
7. Chhatrapati Shahu College, Kolhapur
8. Pandit Nehru Vidyalaya and Junior College, Kaulapur,
9. Yashwantrao Chavan College, Pachwad, Satara
10. Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu College, Kolhapur
11. Chandrabai-Shantappa Shendure College, Hupari, Kolhapur

Kolhapur is known for its contribution to social justice, with the legacy of Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj. However, as part of a carefully orchestrated strategy in the build-up next year’s elections, Kolhapur, as at least 15 districts in Maharashtra has seen the rise of hate speech, hate crimes and systemic communal violence. Police have been reluctant or tardy, though organisations locally in Kolhapur and Citizens for Justice and Peace have been consistently campaigning with the authorities for meticulous registration of FIRs, independent investigations and prosecutions in all these cases.

In recent months, there have been attempts by some individuals and organisations to disrupt social peace in the city. Sabrangindia has reported extensively on the recent violence starting June 5, a 16-year-old minor boy from Kolhapur shared a video on his Instagram account featuring pictures of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb and Tipu Sultan. Tensions mounted the next day and despite the registration of the FIR against this individual, unchecked by the police and administration saw a majoritarian mob gathering and calling for a “shut down” of the city. The protests created a tense atmosphere and over 30,000 people gathered at the Shivaji Chowk. Stone-pelting against targeted Muslims and their shops including vandalizing them was allowed initially unchecked by the wider community. Thereafter a peace rally was organised and then on Sunday, June 25, the occasion of Shahu Maharaj’s birth anniversary, the city of Kolhapur, also the city that gave us rationalist, Dr Govind Pansare, witnessed a march for peace and harmony: sadbhavna or goodwill marked the rally which aimed at promoting unity in a district recently wrecked by communal violence, targeting the minorities.

Clearly the hate and divisive experiment has not stopped. Detailed documentation of the recent incidents by the FFC show this. Identities of the professors and teachers targeted have been concealed as a measure of protection.

The first incident takes place a day after the abovementioned incident on June 8, 2023 itself. On that day, at the Kolhapur Institute of Technology, Gokul Shirgaon, Kolhapur, a woman professor in the college was asked to take a ‘value education’ class. After the class started, some students started a discussion on the topic of ‘gender discrimination’. They made derogatory statements about the minority community: “Muslims are rapists. Hindus are never involved in any kind of riots. Babri Masjid was demolished by order of Supreme Court, etc.” The professor responded with a clear stand regarding these statements, based on facts: “Rape is not limited to any religion or caste. Rapists have no religion or caste. Rape is the most heinous form of crimes against women.”

It is clear that the question-answer session was carefully planned. Some of the students secretly filmed the video of her talk, edited it (read doctored it) and posted it on social media. The video went viral. Based on this doctored clip, some Hindutva-alligned organizations put pressure on the college management and the professor, demanding action against her. They threatened to stop the examinations if no action was taken. They demanded that she render a public apology and insisted that she should publicly apologise, in open, at Shivaji Chowk, Kolhapur.

Succumbing to the pressure, according to the letter issued on June 16, 2023 regarding this incident, disciplinary action was taken against the professor. Without investigating who did the filming in the class without permission, who contributed to distorting it and spreading it, the institute sent the professor on compulsory leave. However, despite this, the professor flatly refused to apologise.

Progressive women in Kolhapur, as well as other progressive youth organisations, met the management of the institute. They argued that the     professor had not violated the discipline of the college in any way. They demanded that the action against the professor be withdrawn, that she should be reinstated in service immediately; the matter be investigated impartially, and that action be taken against the students who doctored and disseminated the video. This issue was also discussed at the national level, with the ‘India Academic Freedom Network’ and other organisations releasing leaflets supporting her.

Even after that, the management advised her to apologise, but she refused. The institution then asked her to ‘work from home’ for a few days. At the end of the forced leave period at the end of the semester she was allowed to re-join service only on August 21, 2023.

Six weeks later, on July 17, 2023, at the Vivekananda Education Society, Kolhapur (reference, Daily Lokmat, Kolhapur. July 18, 2023, there was a controversy over the hijab. A teacher asked a student wearing a saffron to leave the class. Subsequently, angry students argued and asked why Muslim girls were allowed to sit in class wearing the hijab. This created an atmosphere of tension in the college premises for some time. Students mobilized and organized protests in large numbers, in front of the college office, with students shouting slogans such as “Jai Shri Ram”. Police were also called in to calm the students. No information was given by the college administration regarding this incident, but the video of students sloganeering went viral on social media. The college has not taken any action.

Three days later, on July 21 at the Dattajirao Kadam Arts, Science and Commerce College, Ichalkaranji another controversy over religious dress: (Reference: Lokmat News Network 22.07.2023). That morning,

reportedly, two students came to Dattajirao Kadam ASC College wearing saffron scarves. They were stopped at the entrance by security guards and teachers. They confiscated the scarves and asked the students to retrieve them on their way out from college. After this information spread, some students argued that other religions were allowed certain garments, why not them. At this time, some college students wearing hijab were also stopped at the entrance. As soon as the information about this spread, supporters of both the communities gathered outside the college in large numbers, sloganeering started and tensions rose.

As soon as the information about this incident came to light, Deputy Superintendent of Police Sameer Singh Salve, Inspector Raju Tashildar, Satyawan Hake, Pravin Khanpure reached the spot along with the Rapid Action Force.

A large crowd from both sides had gathered in the petrol pump area in front of the college. A stampede broke out as the police used lathi charge to disperse the crowd. There was a big traffic jam on the Kolhapur Road as this was going on in the main road itself. Deputy Superintendent Salve, Principal Dr. Anil Patil, supporters of both the communities held a meeting    at which accusations were hurled. The college administration bought time by announcing that they would discuss it with their senior officers and take a decision. Police security was deployed in front of the college throughout the day.

Hindutva organizations have warned of protests in front of the college if the college administration did not take a proper decision on religious dress by the next Monday, that is July 24, the organisations said they would stand outside the college and distribute saffron scarfs to all the youth entering the college. This did not actually happen, but there is an uneasy calm in the town.

Then comes the incident at the Seventh-Day Adventist School this time in Kolhapur. On August 4, 2023, during a school examination, a student wrote ‘Jai Shri Ram’ on the answer sheet. As per the examination rules, no writing/ picture can be drawn on the answer sheet which will show identification. The teacher told the boy not to do so, but the boy became very aggressive. He then urged other students to write ‘Jai Shri Ram’ on their answer sheets. The teacher, herself a Hindu, got angry and punished the boy. This news “mysteriously” reached a mob of 40-50 men, conveniently waiting outside who, as soon as the school was over, barged into the school and demanded that the school management apologies for punishing the student. There was loud sloganeering and banging of doors.

Inspector Ajay Sindkar of Shahupuri Police Station intervened and held a meeting between the school administration, Hindutva activists and parents. In this meeting, the school administration promised to act against the concerned teacher.

Amidst a tense situation in the school, the next day the school management, teachers and some other people met former Shiv Sena MLA Mr. Rajesh Kshirsagar and discussed the incident with him. No concrete conclusion was reached during this discussion. Mr. Rajesh Kshirsagar explained to the teachers to calm down and asked the school management not to escalate the matter. He said that since he was very ‘positive’ about the school, and he would not escalate the issue if the concerned teacher was asked to resign. When the parents of the concerned child were called by the school, they said that they had no complaint, and they only wanted their child to study further. When the said incident took place, police security was also provided in the school for two days. The management did not come forward to take concrete action by filing a police complaint against the mob entering their school.

When the fact-finding committee met the school administration, the administration behaved very politely. But they were not eager to talk. The following points emerged from the discussion:

1. Seventh-day Adventists have many branches in Maharashtra and in Incidents of this nature are occurring in many of them.
2. This is an attempt to disturb and de-stabilise the

• Many parents have met the teachers and administration of the school and expressed their They also hoped that this  should not affect the students.

1. The mob demanded that the school put up pictures of national and political leaders in the school. After that, such photos have been put up everywhere in the school.
2. Seventh-day Adventists school management has advised a wait-and- watch policy for some time to calm the situation. Therefore, the teacher concerned has been advised to remain on leave till further
3. According to the information received by the committee, on another occasion, when a cleaning staff was called to mop water spilled in the corridor, the children asked her what religion she belonged to. When told that she is a Christian, the students insisted she chant ‘Jai Shri Ram’. Also, ‘Jai Shri Ram’ was written on all the school boards. When asked if this information was true, the administration    categorically denied that it had happened.

Similar attempts have been made to vitiate the atmosphere and disturb the peace in many colleges of Rayat Shikshan Sanstha. To discuss the matter, the fact-finding Committee met Ms. Saroj Patil, General Body Member of Rayat Shikshan Sanstha. The facts that emerged about various colleges under the Rayat Shikshan Sanstha umbrella are as follows.

The first such institution is the Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu College, Kolhapur. On August 12, 2023, Ms. Saroj Patil was chairing a meeting of the College Development Committee (CDC) when a group of 20-25 boys entered the room by kicking the door open. Among them, nine students belonged to the college hostel. All of them wore saffron scarves around their necks and saffron marks on their foreheads. When asked how they came in without permission, they became aggressive and started an argument about hostel facilities. The administration had explained to the students that the hostels were being repaired and thus no hostel admissions would be given this year. On being persuaded, some hostel facilities were provided to the needy students in a long corridor. The Hindutva organisation decided to use this issue to enter the CDC meeting and   create a ruckus. The college administration was clear that they were unable to offer facilities this year and had informed the students. Ms. Patil told the FFC that she intervened on behalf of the students who apologised and are now continuing to stay and study in the college.

Then there is the Pandit Nehru Vidhyalay and Junior College, Rayat Shikshan Sanstha, Kavlapur, Sangli District. On the day of the farewell ceremony of class 10, the students gave a Ganesha image to the staff. Chandrayaan-3 mission was launched on July 14, 2023. On the second day, in the backdrop of Chandrayaan-3 launch on July 15, 2023, a discussion was held among women professors on the scientific progress of the country and theism in the college staffroom. At that time, a female professor removed the Ganesha image from the staff room, taking the stand that it is not appropriate to have images of deities of any religion in the educational institution as per the ordinance of the Rayat Sanstha. The teacher concerned told the FFC that since the headmaster Mr. Mulla was on vacation acting headmaster Mr. Gaikwad was in-charge. After that, on July 17, July 25 and August 22, 2023, groups of Hindutva-inclined youth and villagers came to the college three times and put pressure on the institution against the teacher. They demanded that she should apologise, and the school should take action against her and transfer her with immediate effect. The teacher refused to apologise.

Gram Sabhas were also held on this question in the school premises. Various groups in the village used this incident to create pressure in the institution and mobilise villagers by giving a religious colour to the matter.  Discussion about Hindu-Muslim relations are ongoing in the village, in schools, and colleges. The concerned teacher is having to live under extreme mental stress. The FFC also found that Principal Mulla was transferred from the college to “maintain peace” in the village.

Thereafter, it is the Ms. Saroj Patil and Principal Dr. Manjushri Bobde from the Yashwantrao Chavan College, Pachwad, Satara, who met with the FFC about an incident that took place on August 9, 2023, August Kranti Day. A lecture was organised on August Kranti Din August 9, 2023 at the college, the guest speaker, made some remarks in his speech about the stories related to Hanuman are from the puranas (Hindu mythology and folklore). In the same speech he also referred to Comrade Govind Pansare’s book ‘Who was Shivaji?’, and tried to explain the importance and work of Shivaji Maharaj. Some of the students present at the lecture were Hanuman devotees and their feelings were allegedly hurt. They became agitated and objected to the speech of the guest speaker. The vice principal calmed them down and “apologized” to the students.

When this happened a teacher in the college commented that most students copy and pass their exams and they should stop doing this and instead read Comrade Govind Pansare’s ‘Who was Shivaji?’ On the second day, a mob of villagers and former students came together and demanded that she apologise for mentioning Shivaji in the singular, without according to him the status of Majesty. (This is a sore point with Hindutva organisations with activists claiming Shivaji Maharaj as a much-loved leader and ruler and Hindutva organisations according to him the title of Emperor).

At this time the sub-inspector of Pachwad village and the husband of the teacher was also present. She refused to apologise, stating that she only mentioned the book and did not refer to Shivaji Maharaj in the singular. Interestingly the Sub-Inspector of Police wrote to the college to take disciplinary action against the teacher. The college authorities have since forwarded the letter to the Rayat Shikshan Sanstha, “for further action.”

This incident was discussed at the Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu College, Kolhapur with the concerned professor.  Speaking of the incident at the Chhatrapati Shahu College, the concerned professor said that she had not gone back to college since the incident more than three weeks back and has reported sick. The FFC met Dr. Laxman Kadam the principal of the college. Information obtained from discussions with them is as follows:

The college administration had decided to make special efforts to ensure that students maintain discipline in the college premises. On August 17, 2023 at 12.30 p.m. the senior college professor was checking the dress code and identity card of all students when she noticed a student outside the classroom. She asked him in which class he studied and to show his identity card as it was not visible as he was wearing a saffron scarf. After telling the student that he should not come wearing such a scarf because the identity card is not visible and that the discipline of the college should be followed, he yelled at her and left the premises.

After that, in the staff meeting held around 1.30 pm, Principal Dr. Laxman Kadam said that when some Hindutva organisations came to meet him with complaints, he came to know about the incident. The professor clearly said that it was only a disciplinary matter.

Dr. Kadam told the FFC that a large group of Hindutva organisations came to meet him and barged into his office. They started shouting slogans. The principal called the police and pacified the crowd. The group demanded    that they be told of the dress code regulations of the college.

They repeatedly argued, asking if there were different rules for Hindus and Muslims. Hijab and cap are allowed, but why not saffron scarf, they asked. The principal told them that it is mandatory for students to adhere to the dress code (no jeans, shorts etc) with the prominent display of the identity card. There was no problem if students wore saffron scarves or any other clothing like saffron scarfs, Hijab or skull caps, the issue was that the identity card was not prominently displayed by the student. The mob demanded that the principal produce professor Mulani asking for her to apologize to them. The principal flatly refused.

Dr. Kadam said that three groups of different Hindutva organisations came to meet him and demanded an apology from the professor. Dr. Kadam decided to apologise on her behalf but they were not satisfied. After that, Shri. Ravikiran Ingwale of the Shiv Sena came there and took a stand in favour of the institution. (Note: Mr Ingawale took the opposite position in the KIT college case, described earlier in this report). Mr. Ingawale was allowed to meet the professor. He told her that if she wanted to work in the college, she would have to stop telling Hindus to adhere to a dress code. He told her she may go work elsewhere and insisted that the principal send her on forced leave. The college has decided that it is better to calm the situation and have issued a memo to the professor. She is presently on compulsory leave. The principal has advised the Rayat Shikshan Sanstha to transfer her with immediate effect. The professor is nearing retirement.

The last incident documented is at the Chandrabai-Shantappa Shendure College, Hupari, Kolhapur. A professor in the college put out a social media post about Adv. Prakash Ambedkar laying flowers on Aurangzeb’s grave and saying that since injustice is being done to both the Muslims and Dalits, they should unite. As Hupari village is very sensitive on all matters communal, it got a very negative reaction from the villagers. Principal Bhosale was surrounded by a mob and a case was registered against the professor. There was a demand to transfer the teacher with immediate effect. The institute   has transferred the teacher.

The fact-finding team, in its meeting with the Collector has recommended that

• An independent committee be appointed to conduct an impartial inquiry into these incidents.
• Strict action be taken against those found
• Launching of a helpline to respond to complaints and also reach out immediately to affected parties in case of such

In its detailed analysis, the report states that 

1. The incidents that took place in the months of June -August 2023 in various educational institutions in Kolhapur and Sangli districts are not isolated occurrences. They are predetermined and have a pattern of direct intervention by external elements in educational
2. Educational institutions have become targets of Hindutva groups and
3. There is a deliberate attempt to create tension and rifts on religious lines among students, their parents, and general citizens by targeting educational
4. In these educational institutions, the main intention is to create pressure on the management. It must be noted that it is mainly women teachers who are being targeted. Many teachers are sent on forced leave or transferred under pressure without due process or even a simple
5. Many concerned teachers/administrations have expressed the opinion that tension is being created in this manner in view of Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha elections coming up in
6. The role of the police is not balanced. Their bias towards the majority Hindutva organizations was

The women who are part of this unique effort, WPFP are Dr. Megha Pansare, Shramik Foundation Tanuja Shipurkar, Mahila Dakshata Samithi Rehana Mursal, Meena Seshu, Sangram Sanstha Bharti Powar Seema Patil, Andha Sradha Nirmulan Samithi Smita Vadan, Muskan Sudha Patil, Muskan Pranita Mali, Maharashtra Minority Christian Development Council Anupriya Kadam, Vidhrohi Sanskritic Chalwal Kiran Deshmukh, Veshya Anyay Mukti Parishad Charushila Patil, Jijau Brigade Ranjana Patil, Jijau Brigade Hema Desai, Jijau Brigade Alka Deepak Devlapurkar, Anandi Mahila Jagruti Sanstha Jayashree Kamble, Avani Institute Pushpa Kamble, Ekti sanstha Deepa Shipurkar, Aman Foundation Alka Devlapurkar, Anandi Mahila Jagruti Sanstha Anuradha Mehta, Dalit Mitra Bapusaheb Patil Library Sarika Bakre, Swayamprabha Manch Ulka Yadav, Mahila Dakshata Samithi Ashwini Jadhav Manisha Warang-Ranmale Dr. Bharti Patil Tabsum Imran Malladi Tajnum Jameer Mole | Nasim Chikode Series Sheik Yasmin Desai Farzana Shaikh Manisha Brihaspati Shinde Meena Tashildar Shubda Hiremath Hemlata Patil Munira Shikalgar Ashwini Jadhav Malika Sheikh

The FFC also received preliminary information about the incidents from the social workers Mrs. Pranita Mali and Mrs. Seema Patil, Kolhapur.

Related:

Maharashtra celebrated Shahu Maharaj’s message of social justice, harmony: Kolhapur, Pimpri-Chinchwad

Reconciliation conference in presence of actor, Amol Palekar on June 26: Kolhapur

Kolhapur Citizens meet Collector Rekhawar question impunity of Hindutvawaadi organisations

The post 11 educational institutions target of organised Hindutva mobs in in Kolhapur: Fact-finding team appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Shahu Maharaj, who ruled Kolhapur in the late 19^th 20th century, was a social reformer lauded for his progressive ideals.  Read Sabrangindia’s tribute to this remarkable ruler here. Dilip Ramchandra Vaze has made a tribute to him in the Marathi newspaper, Hindustan that may be read here. Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj reigned over the princely state of Kolhapur for 28 years, from 1894 to 1922. His reign is fondly remembered for his relentless efforts to uplift society and promote social reforms.  He played a significant role in the eradication of untouchability by issuing a Proclamation that declared all public wells, buildings, Dharamshala, state houses, and water resources open to all, without any discrimination.

Reports from Kolhapur obtained by Sabrangindia show that thousands of people participated in the rally, organised by the Rajarshi Shahu Salokha Manch. Former Congress MLA Malojiraje Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, Congress leader and MLC Satej Patil, former rural development minister and Nationalist Congress Party MLA Hassan Mushrif, Congress MLA Rituraj Patil, Swabhimani Farmers Association leader Raju Shetty, along with other MLAs, former mayors and corporators, and office bearers of various organisations participated in this rally.

The Times of India reported that Vasantrao Mulik, the national vice-president of Akhil Bhartiya Maratha Mahasangh was on record saying that, “An untoward incident had taken place in the city that disturbed peace and social harmony. Therefore, to show the strength of our unity and tradition of social harmony, this rally has been organised.” Ironically however, right-wing outfits under Sakal Hindu Samaj –responsible for hate speeches in the state since September 2022 –have alleged that the Sadbhavna rally is being carried out to disrupt the law and order situation in the city

Deepak Desai, district president of Hindu Ekta Andolan to TOI said, “This Sadbhavna rally seems to have a political motive behind it. The district administration should investigate who is behind this.”

Pimpri-Chinchwad

Meanwhile the Free Press Journal has reported that the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation has organized a two-day program, ‘Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj Vichar Prabodhan Parv-2023,’ at Sai Mandir Udyan, Sambhajinagar, in honor of Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj’s birth anniversary. The event aimed to commemorate the life and contributions of Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj, known for initiatives for eradication of poverty, ignorance, superstitions and backwardness prevalent in the society.

The program began on Sunday with a guest lecture, and Monday, June 26, featured a folk songs program. All citizens are invited and encouraged to participate in these discussions, where the teachings and ideals of Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj will be highlighted and celebrated.

Kolhapur

Kolhapur has had a longstanding tradition of equality and social harmony which has been upheld since the time of Shahu Maharaj. However, in recent months, there have been attempts by some individuals and organisations to disrupt social peace in the city.

Sabrangindia has reported extensively on the recent violence starting June 5, a 16-year-old minor boy from Kolhapur shared a video on his Instagram account featuring pictures of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb and Tipu Sultan. In the background, the Haryanvi song ‘Baap to baap rahega‘ was playing. This status quickly went viral.

The very next day, June 6, marked Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s coronation day. Hindutva organisations in Kolhapur claimed that the video “insulted” the Hindu community. By evening, members of these organisations went to the Lakshmipuri police station in the city, filed a case against the 16-year-old as well as some other minors. Many named were not even involved, reportedly. Unchecked by the administration, on June 7, these organisations called for a shutdown in Kolhapur city. The protests created a tense atmosphere and over 30,000 people gathered at the Shivaji Chowk. Stone-pelting against targeted Muslims and their shops including vandalizing them was allowed initially unchecked by the community.

At Sunday’s rally, Vijay Chormare, a senior journalist from Maharashtra, spoke about the role played by political parties in fostering this violence.

“Certain individuals have been fostering an atmosphere of hatred between Hindus and Muslims in recent days. There is significant anger and negative sentiment among the public towards the two-party government that has taken office in the state,” he said.

These parties could be functioning under the idea that such incidents are necessary for their success in the upcoming elections, the journalist said.

“During the Kolhapur riots, the state’s home minister [Devendra Fadnavis] made a rather irresponsible appearing more like a representative of a particular organisation than the people, in stating that they would teach a lesson to Aurangzeb’s children instead of promising strict action against those who disrupt law and order. It is believed that the riots started in the state due to these political motives,” he added.

Chormare further said that the riots in Kolhapur happened due to police inaction. “The police failed to stop the people who came to Kolhapur from outside, so the police, administration and government are responsible for this whole incident.”

Protest marches organised by the Sakal Hindu Samaj and involving a large number of participants have taken place, accompanied by hate speech targeting the Muslim community. These marches dotted Maharashtra including Kolhapur. Over the past few months, incidents of communal riots and arson have been witnessed in cities such as Kolhapur, Akola, Ahmednagar, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Jalgaon and others in Maharashtra. 

Kolhapur is renowned for its food culture, wrestling, Kolhapuri chappals, football and Mahalaxmi temple. The city symbolises the legacy of Shahu Maharaj, and his impactful contributions to society will always be remembered. The Muslim Boarding established by him still operates in the Dussehra Chowk neighbourhood, providing education to the children of economically weak families.

Kolhapur district has been associated with the principles of equality, justice and brotherhood espoused by Shahu Maharaj. Notable figures like Govind Pansare and Prof N.D. Patil have dedicated their lives to spreading progressive ideologies among the people. However, in recent days, there is an emergence of a religious atmosphere in Kolhapur.

Shahu Maharaj a ruler of the people

In addition to a reign that was radical for his times, Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj introduced a reservation policy for backward classes in 1902, reserving 50 percent of jobs in government offices for them. History tells us that artists Dattoba Pawar and Dittoba Dalvi introduced the two revolutionary leaders to each other. Their common goal to uplift oppressed communities inspired many such meetings between 1917–1921.

In 1920, they organised a conference wherein Shahu made Ambedkar the Chairman, believing that he would lead to the betterment of Dalits in India. As a token of this faith, he donated Rs. 2,500 for the other’s newly established ‘Mooknayak’ newspaper.

Other than such broad policies, he also established the Miss Clarke Boarding School for segregated groups and Vedic Schools allowing all to learn the scriptures and Sanskrit. As for adults, he started special schools for village heads to make for more competent administrators.

Under his rule, policies were implemented and people encouraged to treat each other as equal regardless of social status or caste. This meant that Dalits could use the same wells, ponds, and hospitals as Brahmins. Inter-caste marriage was encouraged and revenue collectors became democratically-elected posts rather than hereditary titles. Further, he prepared gymnasiums and wrestling pitches to preserve the sport.

For women, he legalised widow remarriage, prohibited child marriage and called for a law banning the devadasi tradition wherein girls were offered to Gods as sacrifices and then sexually exploited by priests.

These and several such efforts in social, political, educational, agricultural and cultural dimensions of society inspired the title of Rajarshi (royal saint), bestowed upon him by the Kurmi warrior community of Kanpur. His achievements lost their lustre following his demise in the turmoil of national and regional politics. Nonetheless, sympathisers and supporters of Shahu and his beliefs continue his legacy even today.

Related:

Kolhapur Citizens meet Collector Rekhawar question impunity of Hindutvawaadi organisations

Kolhapur Maharashtra: Valorising Aurangzeb will now result in abuse & arrests

Kolhapur’s Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj and his battle for Dalit-Bahujan communities

The post Maharashtra celebrated Shahu Maharaj’s message of social justice, harmony: Kolhapur, Pimpri-Chinchwad appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Speaking to Sabrangindia, SP Mahendra Pandit stated that the whole town of Kolhapur was under curfew presently, peace had somehow been ensured and added that all those guilty of the bandh-instigated violence would be prosecuted. FIRs were also registered against those who attacked a Muslim vendor on June 6 and six arrests have been made.

Yesterday, a group of Hindutva inspired extremist youth thrashed a Muslim minor for reportedly sharing a social media status hailing Aurangzeb and Tipu Sultan. The status (social media) simply valorised Aurangzeb and Tipu and did not in any way attack another community or contain any words to offend or hurt the religious sentiments of any individual.

A video showing a mob of at least 8-10 men abusing a Muslim minor has surfaced online. Incidentally, organisations representing the Muslim community specifically wrote to the SP, Kolhapur Pandit urging that the truth behind the social media posts be established and the entire community not be held hostage.  Former corporator from the city, Adil Faras who was alleged to have been the “author” of the controversial posts clearly distanced himself from the post and has publicly asked the police to get to the bottom of who the real culprits are. SP Pandit and the IG, according to reports from the ground obtained by Sabrangindia, patrolling the streets and urging that the bandh call given by extremist organisations not be adhered to. At 5.30 p.m. a peace meeting has been called by the local police and citizens.

The video can be viewed here:

Location: Kholapur, Maharashtra

Hindu extremists thrashed a Muslim youth who uploaded status hailing Aurangzeb and Tipu Sultan.

Via: @mashoorkumandan pic.twitter.com/v2qth5EVTt

— HindutvaWatch (@HindutvaWatchIn) June 7, 2023

After the first act of violence against a Muslim minor, individuals and groups owing allegiance to Hindutva outfits indulged in vandalism and intimidation. After the reported incident yesterday, it has also been reported that stones were pelted at Muslim Boarding Masjid and Badi Masjid during the protest rally held by the Hindutva far-right groups. Further, Banda Sakunkhe is seen in a video trying to urge that people observe a bandh. In his speech, Sakunkhe can be heard saying “We need to come together… should we shut down Kolhapur tomorrow?” The crowd can be heard cheering loudly at this. The video shows lots of commotion after his words. The crowd was asked to congregate at Shivaji Chowk.

The video can be viewed here:

Later, stones were pelted at a mosque during the protest rally by Hindu far-right groups. The situation remains tense as far-right leaders like Banda Sakunkhe try to keep the pot simmering by delivering communal speeches. As of now, Kholapur Police continues to ignore his hateful… pic.twitter.com/qL16Sw0ba8

— HindutvaWatch (@HindutvaWatchIn) June 7, 2023

This was on Tuesday, June 6 and on June 7, reports from the ground showed that the situation in Kolhapur remained tense. Police patrolling has taken place and curfew has been imposed in parts of the city, especially minority dominated areas.

Dilip Pawar, a comrade of the late Comrade Govind Pansare spoke to Sabrangindia and explained how Muslim organisations and other citizens and groups intervened pro-actively since yesterday evening to ensure that matters are not allowed to escalate into tensions between ordinary Hindus and Muslims. Reportedly an office bearer of the Bharatiya Janata Party Jadhav and the son of former BJP MLA Rajesh Kshirsagar, Ruturaj were also proactive in furthering tensions. Unconfirmed reports of Muslim fruit vendors being attacked by Hindutva extremists have been surfacing from the area. In the said video, a mob of such persons can be seen pelting stones at a Muslim person, and later hitting him with a stone while a police woman can be seen running away from the scene. After the Muslim vendor gets attacked by the mob of more than 10 individuals, and to protect himself, he picks up one or two stones too and hits the crowd. This has no effect on the crowd, which keeps on pelting stones at the Muslim man. A police car can then be seen arriving at the scene.

The video can be viewed here:

Location: Kholapur, Maharashtra

Muslim fruit vendor attacked by Hindu extremists amid tensions in the area.

pic.twitter.com/GsduYDMolp

— HindutvaWatch (@HindutvaWatchIn) June 7, 2023

Following the tensions since June 6 in Kolhapur, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar said that the ruling party “encourages” instances of communal violence, as has been reported by the Indian Express. “Incidents of communal clashes in Ahmednagar and Kolhapur have taken place over some mobile messages. What is the meaning of hitting the streets over such messages? Today’s ruling party encourages such things. Rulers should ensure peace and law and order. But if rulers start hitting the street and create enmity among two communities, that is not a good thing for the state,” Pawar said, addressing a press conference in Ahmednagar on Wednesday morning. He also said that the tensions were a result of the ideology of the ruling dispensation at work and that this must be deplored. (Reports in ABP Marathi and Indian Express)

Pawar said that it was good that the incidents were limited to certain parts of the state only. “But I am saying that this is being planned. I saw it on TV that someone showed Aurangzeb’s photo in Aurangabad, then what is the meaning of a communal clash over this in Pune?” he asked.

“Churches were attacked in states like Orissa or others. I do not understand the reason behind attacking a religious place for an action of an individual. This is not a work of an individual but an ideology works behind this. This ideology is not good for the society,” Pawar further said.

It is pertinent to note that this is not the lone event in Maharashtra where tensions had erupted in Maharashtra’s Ahmednagar too this week after posters of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb were raised during a procession on Sunday in the area with two people. The police have filed a case against four people in total, two have been arrested. The arrests were made after a video of the event went viral where a man can be seen holding a poster of Aurangzeb in Ahmednagar’s Mukundnagar area. “Amid music and dance in the procession, four youths carried posters of Aurangzeb. An offence was registered against these four under Indian Penal Code for intention to incite a community to commit an offence against another community, hurting religious sentiments, as well as other offences,” a police official told news agency PTI.

Maharashtra has witnessed a number of localised communal clashes since the formation of the BJP-Sena government. On Tuesday, the Sangamner area of Ahmednagar district witnessed communal clashes between two groups after a rally by Sakal Hindu Samaj. In Kolhapur, right-wing Hindu organisations called for a bandh on Wednesday over a reportedly objectionable message involving Mughal king Aurangzeb.

Reacting to the matter, state Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday said such acts would not be tolerated, as was reported by India Today.  “If someone flashes the poster of Aurangzeb, it will not be tolerated. In this country and state, our revered deities are Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj,” Fadnavis was quoted as saying by the PTI. This statement by a person in power certainly sends a message!

The video of the incident can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKwflc0F2iA

It remains unclear how or when the act of holding up a poster of, or putting up a status of, the Mughal ruler Aurangzeb becomes a crime under the Indian laws, attracting penalties and arrests. Today, the polarised political situation has made the religious minority prone to be slapped with Section 295A for expressing their own beliefs, valorising rulers from their own community or engaging in nothing more than peaceful speech, and booked under the charges of spreading religious enmity and hurting the religious sentiments of the other communities.

Increasingly, in recent times, the names of Tipu Sultan, an 18th-century Mysore ruler, and Aurangzeb, the sixth emperor of the Mughal Empire, have been stigmatised by elected officials of the BJP government –through selective manipulations of their role and rule in the past –and the fringe Hindutva outfits as part of their extremist Hindutva propaganda and erasure of Muslim history.

Neither does it help that every other day, such right-wing Hindutva leaders (and even elected officials) are making public speeches spreading misinformation regarding these two Muslim rulers, attributing only brutal acts to ensure polarisation on the ground. In fact, in December last year, nine less than the Prime Minister Narendra Modi had spoken about Aurangzeb at an event in Varanasi, a ruler who had died 300 plus years more, and said that “Aurangzeb’s atrocities, his terror, he tried to change civilisation by the sword. He tried to crush culture with fanaticism.” A month before this, in November 2022, he had even mentioned the Mughal ruler’s name again while speaking on the occasion of the 400th birth anniversary of Sikh Guru Tegh Bahadur, who was beheaded for refusing to convert to Islam, and said that “even though Aurangzeb severed many heads, he could not shake our faith”.

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Uttarakhand: Mazar demolished by far right extremists

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