Tensions Rise in Maharashtra Over Religious Remarks

Tension escalated in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, after a group of Muslims demanded action against Hindu religious leader Ramgiri Maharaj for his remarks against Prophet Mohammad. Police urged for peace and promised action. AIMIM's Imtiaz Jaleel called for strict action, alleging a deliberate attempt to create communal strife.

Tension escalated in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, on Friday after a group of Muslims gathered outside the City Chowk police station, demanding action against Hindu religious leader Ramgiri Maharaj for his alleged objectionable remarks against Prophet Mohammad, officials reported.

Police officials, including Inspector Nirmala Pardeshi, worked to calm the assembled crowd, assuring them that their concerns would be addressed and that strict action would be taken as necessary. Maharaj, speaking to Marathi news channel ABP Majha, stood firm on his statements and indicated his readiness to face any consequences.

Former MP and AIMIM state unit president Imtiaz Jaleel wrote to the city police commissioner, emphasizing the need for action against Maharaj. Jaleel accused Maharaj of making inflammatory statements in Nashik's Panchale village to incite communal discord and called for stringent measures to prevent potential communal violence.

(With inputs from agencies.)