A small village in Jalna district of Maharashtra has turned into the epicentre of communal tension after the alleged desecration of a 12th-century Mahadev temple on September 19. According to police, pieces of meat were thrown inside the temple, triggering outrage among villagers.
Police investigations, however, took a different turn. CCTV footage from the temple confirmed the involvement of 38-year-old Nandkishor Suresh Wadgaonkar, a resident of Anwa village in Bhokardan tehsil of Jalna district. Paradh police station officer Santosh Mane said Wadgaonkar, who lived near the temple, was allegedly upset after authorities denied him permission to build a house near the temple premises. This, along with personal grievances, is suspected to have driven him to commit the act.
Following the incident, right-wing activists staged protests and called for a bandh. During these agitations, inflammatory speeches were delivered targeting the Muslim community, with abusive language and slogans being raised. The protests created an atmosphere of fear, forcing many Muslim families to flee the village.
Students from a minority-run BHMS and ITI colleges also vacated their hostels and returned home.
Despite the arrest, right-wing groups rejected the police findings, alleging that the authorities were shielding the “real culprits.” They vowed to continue their agitation and announced a Hindu Jan Akrosh Morcha. On Friday, thousands gathered at Chhatrapati Shivaji Chowk, Bhokardan, demanding the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the case.
Religious leader Ratnagiri Maharaj, activist Sangram Bhandare, Ahilyanagar MLA Sangram Jagtap (NCP–Ajit Pawar faction), and Ambadas Ambhore addressed the rally, sharply criticising both the police and Muslims. Their speeches included communal rhetoric and hate-laden remarks against Muslims, further heightening tension.
The September 19 incident has revived memories of another communal flashpoint in the region. On March 23, 2023, Imam Zakir Sayyad Khaja of Anwa village was attacked inside a mosque by unidentified assailants who demanded he chant “Jai Shri Ram.” When he refused, they assaulted him with a sharp blade and cut his beard.
Amid the charged atmosphere, Muslims approached Additional Superintendent of Police Ayush Nopany, demanding action against right-wing activists who, they alleged, “vitiated the atmosphere and abused Muslims.”
Former MP Imtiyaz Jaleel also criticised the hate speeches delivered at the morcha. He urged the police not to succumb to pressure from right-wing groups and to initiate legal action against those responsible for disturbing communal harmony.
Residents and community leaders believe the recent incidents are part of a larger conspiracy aimed at inflaming communal passions in the region.
This story was originally published in maktoobmedia.com.
