In the aftermath of a communal clash on the day of the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha in Ayodhya, the Mira Bhaindar Municipal Corporation took action by demolishing “illegal” roadside stalls in the Naya Nagar area of Thane district. The clash on January 21 involved a mob of 50-60 individuals allegedly assaulting a man participating in a procession on the eve of the Ram Temple’s idol consecration.
The Municipal Corporation deployed a bulldozer to clear the roadside stalls in Naya Nagar. The move was part of an effort to address issues related to unauthorized structures and ensure adherence to civic regulations. A significant police presence, including the Rapid Action Force (RAF), was already in place due to the recent communal clash.
On Monday, authorities booked several individuals involved in the assault during the procession, and clashes between two communities led to the arrest of 13 people. The tensions prompted Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to emphasize “zero tolerance” against any attempt to disturb law and order in the state.
As the demolition took place, concerns were raised by some stall owners, including a handicapped man who sells kebab pao on the road. According to him, civic officials claimed his stall lacked a renewed license, but he insisted that he had completed the necessary renewal process.
The recent events underscore the delicate situation in the region, with authorities taking swift action to address both the communal clash and civic compliance. The focus on maintaining law and order reflects the state’s commitment to preventing any further disturbances and ensuring the safety and security of its residents.
Dhairya Saraswat