SP MLA demands CID probe into Vishalgad violence

On July 14, former BJP MP Sambhajiraje Chhatrapati along with his supporters held a Chalo Vishalgad march to the fort to protest against the encroachments. Violence broke out during the protest, with people vandalising shops and trying to attack a mosque within the fort’s vicinity.

In his letter to the deputy chief ministers, the Bhiwandi East MLA stated that despite the matter being sub judice, extreme right-wing associations took the law into their own hands.

“It was a planned conspiracy to incite riots under the guise of encroachment. The dargah and mosque of the famous saint Malik Rehanbaba were destroyed.

Those involved in the violence burnt and vandalised houses, shops, and vehicles of the people from the Muslim community,” Shaikh said.

Shaikh alleged that the violence occurred in the presence of the Superintendent of Police with the police being a mute spectator.

“The local police have maintained a passive stance in this matter. Therefore, the Muslim community no longer trusts the local police. A CID probe must be instituted,” he added.

Shaikh further said that the minority community fears there could be more incidents in the coming months ahead of the Assembly elections.

“The orchestrated violence has created an atmosphere of fear among the minority community. To instill confidence, externment action must be taken against those involved in the riots,” Shaikh demanded.

Shaikh also demanded that the government must ensure that the affected people should be given adequate compensation within 15 days.

“The damage to their properties has caused an immense loss to these families. Their sufferings have intensified due to the ongoing monsoon season. Therefore, the efforts shall be expedited to provide relief to them in 15 days,” Shaikh added.