Violence Erupts Over Controversial Remarks by NCP MLA Jitendra Awhad

NCP MLA Jitendra Awhad's car was attacked in Mumbai due to his comments on Sambhaji Chhatrapati. The assault involved several individuals who damaged his vehicle and fled. Protests ensued in Thane, leading to detentions. Awhad had criticized Sambhaji Chhatrapati regarding violence during an anti-encroachment drive in Kolhapur.

NCP (SP) MLA Jitendra Awhad's vehicle was attacked on Thursday in Mumbai by a group of individuals allegedly in retaliation for his remarks against former Rajya Sabha MP Sambhaji Chhatrapati.

The incident occurred in the early evening as Awhad was heading to Thane via the Eastern Freeway. The assailants damaged the rear of his SUV with sticks and threw a stone before fleeing. They also shouted slogans supporting Sambhaji Chhatrapati.

Following the attack, further investigations are being conducted, according to an official from the Dongri police station. That evening, NCP (SP) activists, including city unit chief Suhas Desai, were detained for blocking the Eastern Express Highway in protest. The blockade was soon lifted by Thane police.

Awhad's controversial critique of Sambhaji Chhatrapati stems from a violent episode at Kolhapur's Vishalgad fort last month during an anti-encroachment drive. Awhad claimed that the violence was aimed at a specific community and that even Shahu Chhatrapati, Sambhaji's father, disapproved of the unrest.

(With inputs from agencies.)