Shiv Sena Leader Accused in Temple Attack Incident

A Shiv Sena leader, Vikas Repale, and several others were booked in Thane for allegedly preventing Dalits from entering a temple and attacking them. The incident took place late Wednesday night. Repale is considered a close aide of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. An investigation is ongoing.

A Shiv Sena leader, alongside several others, has been booked in Thane for allegedly attacking individuals and preventing them from entering a temple, as confirmed by a police official on Thursday.

The incident, which occurred late Wednesday night, involved Vikas Repale, a former corporator, who had convened a meeting at the temple. Repale allegedly prevented a 25-year-old Dalit student and others of his caste from entering, citing their different religion (Buddhism).

The police have registered cases against Repale and others under various sections, including assault and unlawful assembly, according to Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. No arrests have been made yet, and an investigation is currently underway.

(With inputs from agencies.)