Tension gripped Malegaon city in Maharashtra's Washim district after a stone-pelting incident disrupted a Durga immersion procession. The confrontation erupted near Tipu Sultan Chowk as the festive procession was making its way through the streets for the idol immersion as reported in similar regional unrest contexts. According to available details, the entire dispute was triggered by the scattering of colored powder or Gulal during the celebrations.
Heated Altercation with Durga Mandal Members
Some local youths became enraged after the Gulal accidentally landed on a house along the route, prompting them to hurl abuses at individuals present in the Durga Mandal. The argument quickly escalated into active stone-pelting, and several vehicles parked nearby were extensively vandalized by angry mobs. Disturbed by the violence, members of the Durga Mandal marched to the local police station to demand the immediate arrest of the culprits, declaring that they would halt the immersion procession until the accused individuals were taken into custody.
Deployment of Security Forces and Current Situation
Upon receiving urgent alerts about the escalation, local law enforcement units rushed to the spot with a massive police contingent. When the standard police force proved insufficient to contain the mounting hostility, authorities deployed additional personnel from the SRPF and the RAF to restore order. Tense calm currently prevails across Malegaon as security forces maintain strict vigilance over the neighborhood. Updates and visual recordings shared on X highlight the heavy police presence deployed to manage the crisis.
Official Statement from Police Authorities
Detailing the sequence of events, Washim Sub-Divisional Police Officer Ramkrishna Pawar stated that the altercation began when Gulal was tossed near the residences of a specific community during the immersion activities. A few locals raised objections, leading to a heated verbal duel and mutual stone-pelting between the groups. He noted that police intervention successfully brought the situation under control and that formal FIR registration and legal proceedings are actively underway regarding the dispute.
Ongoing Police Investigation
Investigative teams are thoroughly examining all aspects of the incident to identify everyone involved in the violence and vandalism. Authorities continue to urge community members to maintain peace and refrain from believing in rumors. Police pickets remain stationed across sensitive zones to ensure public safety and prevent any further flare-ups.
