Tensions Rise in Jalgaon as RSS March Sparks Protests

Tensions escalated in Jalgaon district, Maharashtra, during the preparations for a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) route march on Dussehra. The march faced opposition from a group that objected to its route passing in front of a mosque, leading to protests primarily by Muslim women. The situation intensified as demonstrators gathered outside the mosque, resulting in stone-throwing incidents between opposing groups, prompting police to take action.

The RSS planned to conduct its route march in Kingaon, but the proposed path sparked significant unrest. The protests grew when women sat on the road outside the mosque, expressing their dissent against the march. As tensions rose, police intervened to restore order, employing a mild lathicharge to disperse the crowds and manage the situation.

Superintendent of Police Shreekant Dhivare, along with other senior officials, arrived at the scene as the situation unfolded. He reported that the area had returned to normalcy, with a substantial police presence remaining in Kingaon to ensure peace. Dhivare emphasized that the police had made numerous attempts to negotiate with the protesting group for over two hours but faced resistance.

The Superintendent clarified that the RSS had obtained the necessary permissions for the procession, asserting that no group had the authority to obstruct it. He stated, "The police had granted permission for the procession in accordance with the Constitution. Therefore, no one has the right to stop it." Following the lathicharge, the RSS march was able to conclude without further incident.

In the aftermath, police reported the arrest of several individuals identified as anti-social elements involved in the unrest. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to prevent any further escalation and maintain public order in the region.