Tensions Flare in Ahmednagar Over Road Graffiti; Protest Turns Violent

Ahmednagar, Maharashtra – A protest in Ahmednagar turned violent on Monday after an individual wrote “I love Mohammed” on a public road, an act that many local residents found disrespectful. The incident led to clashes that prompted police to use a baton charge to disperse the crowd.

According to officials, the controversy began Monday morning in the Kotwali area when the message was discovered on the road. Members of the local Muslim community objected to the writing, viewing it as an insult to the Prophet Mohammed. A formal complaint was filed at the Kotwali police station, and one person was arrested in connection with the incident.

Despite the arrest, a large group of protesters gathered and blocked the Ahmednagar-Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar road. Officials reported that while police urged the crowd to remain calm, some individuals began throwing stones. To restore order and control the situation, the police were compelled to use force.

Ahmednagar’s Superintendent of Police, Somnath Gharge, confirmed that at least 30 people were detained for their involvement in the protest, road blockade, and stone-pelting. “The police are taking action against the accused, and the situation is now under control,” Gharge stated, urging the public not to believe or spread rumors.

Speaking on the matter, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that authorities would investigate whether there was a deliberate attempt to disturb peace and create social division in the state. “Everyone is free to practice their religion, but no one will be allowed to engage in polarization,” he commented.

This incident follows similar reports of protests in other parts of the country, including a recent controversy over an “I love Mohammed” campaign in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh.