Non-Hindus must not be allowed to set up shops at Nashik Kumbh Mela: Maha minister Nitesh Rane
Nashik: Stoking another controversy, Maharashtra minister and Bharatiya Janata Party leader Nitesh Rane on Thursday demanded that non-Hindus should not be allowed to set up shops at the Simhastha Kumbh Mela in Nashik.
Speaking to reporters, Rane, who is also the state fisheries minister, said the Kumbh Mela is a "festival of faith" and asserted that those who do not follow Hindu beliefs should not profit from the mela. He added that the seers and the general public should be cautious and avoid entertaining such people during the fair.
"For those who consider us 'Kaafir,' why should we buy puja items from them? Only Hindu shops should be set up. This is our sentiment, and it reflects the sentiment of every Hindu community. There’s nothing wrong with that. During Eid and other such festivals, no one buys from Hindus because they consider us 'Kaafir [unbelievers]'..." the BJP leader remarked.
Rane, known for his anti-Muslim statements, also urged Hindus to be vigilant and prevent outsiders from setting up shops or businesses using "Hindu-sounding names."
The Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha, a Hindu religious congregation held every 12 years, will next be celebrated in October 2026. It is one of the four Kumbh Melas held across India.
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Minor girl kidnapped and raped; main accused and two cafe owners held
Latur (PTI): A minor girl was allegedly kidnapped and raped by an 18-year-old man in Latur, leading to the arrest of the main accused and owners of two cafes where the crime occurred on December 4, police said on Saturday.
Police traced the girl within hours of registering the complaint. The accused, identified as Rihan Gulab Shaikh, was arrested based on the girl's complaint. Two others are owners of two cafes where the crime occurred, police said.
Police registered a case under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), POCSO Act, and the Prevention of Atrocities Act, an official said.
