Mumbai, In a contentious move that has sparked widespread controversy, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA, Nitesh Rane, demanded the demolition of mosques and madrasas in Maharashtra, during a Hindutva rally held in the Govandi suburb of east Mumbai. The rally, led by Rane, who represents Kankavli in Maharashtra’s legislative assembly, witnessed calls for the removal of Islamic religious structures across the state.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Rane’s rhetoric escalated during the event as he led chants against the Muslim community and advocated for the use of arms. He cited recent events in Mira Road, a locality where several properties owned by Muslims were reportedly bulldozed following the consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, as a precedent for actions that could be undertaken in Shivaji Nagar, where the rally took place.
Rane’s statements at the rally and to the media emphasized the use of bulldozers against what he referred to as structures built as a result of “land jihad,” suggesting a readiness to replicate the Mira Road demolitions in other areas, including Shivaji Nagar, with or without government support.
The remarks have ignited a firestorm of criticism, highlighting the tension between religious communities in Maharashtra and raising serious concerns about the potential for violence and unrest.