Don’t Spoil Peaceful Atmosphere of Maharashtra: Minister Nitesh Rane

Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane issued a stern warning against actions that could spoil the state's peaceful atmosphere amid the ongoing Navratri festival, emphasising that no one will be permitted to disrespect Hindu deities. Speaking during a visit to a Durga pandal organised by Sakal Hindu Samaj in Mumbai's Mankhurd area on Wednesday, Rane highlighted the ruling Mahayuti alliance's commitment to safeguarding religious sentiments, following recent communal tensions in the locality.

The minister's remarks come in the wake of an incident on Sunday night, where an idol of Goddess Durga was allegedly desecrated at a pandal in Mankhurd, sparking a clash between two groups and prompting police intervention. Rane, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, described the Mahayuti government—comprising BJP, Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction), and Ajit Pawar-led NCP—as a "Hindutvawadi" administration elected on Hindu votes.

He took a pointed swipe at those wearing a "gol topi" (skullcap, often associated with Muslim communities), asserting they did not support the coalition, and urged all groups to celebrate festivals without interference. "Celebrate your festivals peacefully, and we will celebrate ours. Don't look at us sideways," Rane stated, adding that the government would not tolerate attempts to disturb Mumbai's harmony.

Rane participated in a 'maha aarti' at the pandal, reinforcing his message of unity through devotion. He assured that permissions for festival events would be swiftly granted upon request, streamlining celebrations across the state. Navratri, a nine-day Hindu festival honouring Goddess Durga, draws millions to garba and dandiya events in Maharashtra, blending cultural fervour with community gatherings. However, Rane's comments echo broader concerns over maintaining law and order during such periods, especially in diverse urban pockets like Mankhurd, a suburb with a mixed demographic.

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On Monday, Rane had backed a Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) advisory urging garba organisers to verify participants' identity documents, claiming such venues were turning into "epicentres" of "love jihad"—a controversial term alleging interfaith romantic entanglements targeting Hindu women. This stance has drawn criticism from opposition parties like Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT), who accused the government of stoking divisions ahead of local elections.

As Navratri progresses toward Dussehra on October 2, authorities have ramped up security at pandals, with Mumbai Police deploying additional personnel to prevent flare-ups and ensure seamless festivities.

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