Temple desecration sparks communal tensions in Maharashtra’s Jalna despite arrest of Hindu accused
Jalna: A village in Maharashtra’s Jalna district has become a flashpoint of communal tension following the desecration of a 12th-century Mahadev temple on September 19. Police investigations, however, revealed that the accused was not from the Muslim community but a Hindu man, a fact that has done little to calm the unrest.
According to police, CCTV footage confirmed the involvement of 38-year-old Nandkishor Suresh Wadgaonkar, a resident of Anwa village in Bhokardan tehsil. Wadgaonkar, who lived near the temple, allegedly threw meat pieces inside the premises after being denied permission to build a house close to the shrine. Officers suspect personal grievances fueled his actions.
Despite his arrest, right-wing groups rejected the police findings and launched protests, alleging a cover-up. Agitations quickly escalated, with inflammatory speeches targeting Muslims and abusive slogans raised during a bandh. Fear spread through the community, forcing many Muslim families to flee. Students from minority-run BHMS and ITI colleges also vacated their hostels and returned home.
On Friday, thousands gathered at Chhatrapati Shivaji Chowk in Bhokardan under the banner of a “Hindu Jan Akrosh Morcha,” demanding a Special Investigation Team (SIT). Leaders such as Ratnagiri Maharaj, activist Sangram Bhandare, Ahilyanagar MLA Sangram Jagtap (NCP–Ajit Pawar faction), and Ambadas Ambhore addressed the rally, delivering speeches laced with communal rhetoric.
The incident has revived memories of past violence in the region. On March 23, 2023, Imam Zakir Sayyad Khaja of Anwa village was attacked in a mosque by unidentified assailants who forced him to chant “Jai Shri Ram.” When he refused, they slashed his beard with a blade.
In the wake of the current unrest, Muslim residents petitioned Additional Superintendent of Police Ayush Nopany, demanding legal action against right-wing activists who, they alleged, “abused Muslims and vitiated the atmosphere.” Former MP Imtiyaz Jaleel also condemned the hate-filled speeches, urging police not to bow to political pressure and to act firmly against those inciting communal discord.
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