Tensions flared in Mira-Bhayandar on Tuesday after police denied permission for the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena’s (MNS) planned protest march over alleged injustices faced by Marathi-speaking citizens. Authorities imposed Section 144 across the region and detained several MNS leaders, including district chief Avinash Jadhav, in a preemptive overnight crackdown.
The march, scheduled to start at 10:00 am from Balaji Hotel, was to protest against what the MNS described as systematic discrimination against locals. However, late Monday night, police raided homes of several party workers, placing some under house arrest and detaining others to prevent the gathering.
Despite the police action, MNS leader Sandeep Deshpande remained defiant, asserting the party’s resolve to proceed. But Additional Commissioner of Police Datta Shinde issued a stern warning: “Permission has been denied. No one should gather at the announced location. Strict action will be taken against anyone attempting to incite unrest.”
Shinde confirmed enhanced security across Mira-Bhayandar, especially at railway stations, traffic junctions, and public gathering spots. “Section 144 has been imposed to prevent gatherings of more than five people. Citizens must cooperate with the police to maintain peace,” he stated.
He further clarified that any attempt to gather will be considered an unlawful act and that detentions were made based on reasonable suspicion under existing laws. “This is not a crackdown, but a necessary preventive measure,” he insisted.
The situation remains tense as political fault lines deepen in the region ahead of civic elections, with the MNS accusing the administration of targeting Marathi interests.
