Tensions Erupt During Durga Idol Immersion Procession in Washim

Washim, October 22 (Daily Kiran) : Tensions flared in Washim, Maharashtra, during the Durga idol immersion procession on October 22. The event, which took place in the Tipu Sultan Chowk area of Malegaon, was marred by an incident of stone-pelting.

Despite the tense atmosphere, the procession commenced peacefully around 4 AM, with riot control police and the Maharashtra State Reserve Police Force deployed to ensure safety.

The trouble began when colored powder, or gulal, thrown into the air landed on a nearby house. This sparked a dispute between members of the Durga Mandal and some local youths. The argument quickly escalated, resulting in stone-throwing and chaos in the area. Enraged individuals attempted to vandalize several vehicles, including two-wheelers.

In response to the unrest, a large crowd gathered at the local police station, demanding the arrest of those responsible. Police officials urged the community to remain calm and to disregard any rumors circulating about the incident.

Given the seriousness of the situation, law enforcement increased their presence at the scene and surrounding areas to prevent further disturbances. As of now, a tense calm prevails in Malegaon, with police closely monitoring the situation.

Sub-Divisional Police Officer Ramkrishna Pawar addressed reporters, stating that the conflict arose after gulal landed on the property of a member of a specific community. This prompted objections from a few individuals, leading to a heated exchange with members of the Durga Mandal. Police intervened, and while some stones were thrown from a nearby alley, they managed to control the situation without any damage to homes.

Pawar emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and preventing any escalation of disputes, confirming that additional riot control units were deployed as a precautionary measure.