Thousands of Muslim protestors marched in Mumbai, calling for action against a BJP MLA and a preacher accused of inciting hate speech
Multiple cases have been registered in Maharashtra against Rane over his speeches targeting Muslims.
MUMBAI: A large number of members from the Muslim community, led by former MP Imtiaz Jaleel of AIMIM and supported by various political and social groups, embarked on a rally from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar on Monday afternoon. The convoy, consisting of hundreds of vehicles, reached the Mulund toll plaza by late evening with the aim of entering Mumbai. Their objective was to demand action against BJP MLA Nitesh Rane and preacher Ramgiri Maharaj, both facing hate speech charges.
Jaleel called for the arrest of Rane and Ramgiri Maharaj, accusing them of making inflammatory remarks. He also planned to distribute copies of the Constitution to members of the ruling Mahayuti coalition and senior police officials. However, the Mumbai Police clarified that Jaleel had not been granted permission to enter the city. Barricades were set up at the Mulund toll naka, a major entry point into Mumbai, where a heavy police presence, including over 3,000 officers, was deployed, and traffic was diverted to manage the situation.
Joint Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) Satyanarayan Choudhary, who was present at the scene, confirmed that the crowd dispersed peacefully later that night after submitting a letter to government representatives. According to police sources, around 2,000 vehicles took part in the protest, which also saw participation from activists of the Dalit and Maratha communities.
