Tensions flared in Amravati, Maharashtra, following controversial remarks made by Hindu seer Yati Narsinghanand Maharaj concerning Prophet Mohammad. The situation escalated when a large crowd gathered outside the Nagpuri Gate police station, demanding action against the seer. The confrontation resulted in a violent clash, leaving 21 police officers injured and 10 police vehicles damaged.
The root of the unrest lay in the seer’s inflammatory statements. According to Siasat Daily, Yati Narsinghanand Maharaj from Uttar Pradesh made ‘objectionable’ comments about Prophet Muhammad, suggesting that his effigy should be burned during Dussehra. He also echoed previous sentiments, stating that the goal of Hindutva should be to reach Mecca and the Kaaba.
On Friday night, members of various organizations converged outside the Nagpuri Gate police station, demanding the registration of a case against the seer. While police initially filed an FIR, a video of the seer’s remarks circulating on social media reignited the crowd’s anger, leading to a return to the police station.
As police attempted to calm the situation, the crowd turned aggressive, pelting stones at law enforcement officers. In response, senior police officials intervened, deploying additional forces to manage the chaos. Despite their efforts, the violence continued, causing injuries to several officers and damage to police vehicles.
In the aftermath of the incident, police implemented a prohibitory order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), restricting gatherings of five or more people in the Nagpuri Gate area. Authorities have initiated legal proceedings against approximately 1,200 individuals involved in the incident, with 26 already identified.
Yati Narsinghanand Maharaj now faces serious allegations, including deliberate actions intended to outrage religious feelings and provoke communal discord. The police are conducting further investigations to hold accountable those involved in the violence, emphasizing the need for peace and order in Maharashtra.
