In a recent incident on the outskirts of Mumbai, a clash unfolded in Mira Road during a vehicle rally celebrating the inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. The conflict, involving two groups, Hindu and Muslim, resulted in the arrest of 13 individuals. Despite initial concerns, authorities clarified that it was not a case of communal violence but rather a confrontation between two groups during the rally in Naya Nagar.

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The clash took place between two groups during a vehicle rally in Naya Nagar, Mira Road. The event was organized to mark the inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, and tensions escalated over a minor scuffle. The Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, stressed a “zero tolerance” policy against any attempts to disrupt peace and order in the state.

The incident occurred on the same day as the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, with the clash erupting in Naya Nagar, Mira Road, on the outskirts of Mumbai. The clash raised concerns due to the potential to heighten tensions, given the significance of the Ram Temple inauguration.

Source: Mint

While initially feared as communal violence, authorities clarified that the clash stemmed from a minor altercation between the two groups. It was not driven by communal tensions but rather a confrontation during the rally. The Maharashtra government had declared January 22 as a state holiday in connection with the Ram Temple inauguration, increasing security measures for the event.

The Mira Bhayandar – Vasai Virar (MBVV) police acted promptly to defuse the situation, ensuring that it did not escalate into a full-blown communal conflict. DCP (Zone I), Jayant Bajbal, reassured the public that no communal flare-up had been reported, urging citizens not to succumb to rumors. A thorough investigation is underway, with CCTV footage being reviewed to identify and apprehend individuals involved in the clash.

Source: The Indian Express

In response to the clash, Deputy Chief Minister Fadnavis directed the Police Commissioner to take immediate action, resulting in the arrest of 13 individuals. Fadnavis emphasized a stern stance against those attempting to disturb law and order in Maharashtra. He stated, “There will be zero tolerance against anyone who tries to take the law into their own hands.”

Videos depicting ‘communal tension’ surfaced on social media ahead of the Ram Temple inauguration. The footage showed attackers targeting Muslim owned vehicles, breaking glasses, and engaging in verbal abuse. 

Source: Republic World

Communal tension continued for the second day in Mira Road, with reports of live-streamed brutality on social media platforms. An independent news outlet shared a video of fresh clashes, including attacks on an auto-rickshaw, shops, and vehicles belonging to Muslim communities. The situation prompted a flag march to restore peace in the area.

Victims of the violence reported that they were forced to chant religious slogans. Deputy Chief Minister Fadnavis warned of strict action against rioters and emphasized demolishing illegal constructions in Mumbai amid heightened security. 

Local police issued warnings against the dissemination of objectionable content on social media. Additional Commissioner of Police Shrikant Pathak appealed for peace, assuring that the investigation would target only the accused.