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Former AIMIM Nashik Chief Arrested in Dargah Demolition Violence; Ajit Pawar Defends Police Crackdown
Mukhtar Shaikh, who once headed the AIMIM’s Nashik unit, has been arrested for his alleged role in the violence that broke out during the demolition of a dargah at Kathe Galli late Tuesday night into Wednesday.
With Shaikh’s arrest, the total number of people held in connection with the Kathe Galli violence has risen to 37, not counting a juvenile, said Deputy Commissioner of Police Kirankumar Chavan. He added that all the accused have been sent to police custody till Saturday.
Speaking about Shaikh’s involvement, Chavan stated that he is accused of inciting violence both directly and through social media platforms. "We have gathered certain inputs related to his role," he added. personally and by using social media. Police have collected some inputs regarding it."
Parvez Khalid, who oversees AIMIM’s operations in North Maharashtra, defended Shaikh, claiming he was present at the scene solely to help ease tensions. Echoing a similar sentiment, Gajanan Shelar, president of NCP (SP)’s Nashik unit, said their party workers were at the site trying to calm the situation and support the police in maintaining order.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Friday came out in support of the Nashik police's decision to file cases against several individuals, including members of the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), following the recent violence during the demolition of a dargah.
Speaking to reporters in Pune, Pawar clarified that the police action wasn’t influenced by political affiliations. “Cases have not been registered based on anyone’s party connections. If someone is involved in an incident, the police take action, regardless of their political background,” he said.
He further emphasized the government's commitment to law and order. “We won’t tolerate anyone taking the law into their own hands. Strict action will be taken against all such individuals,” Pawar asserted. He also reiterated the state’s dedication to preserving communal harmony, citing the guiding principles of Shahu Maharaj, Jyotiba Phule, and Dr B.R. Ambedkar.
