Maharashtra minister Nitesh Rane has issued a stern warning against disturbing the state’s peaceful atmosphere during Navratri celebrations. Visiting a Durga pandal organised by Sakal Hindu Samaj in Mumbai’s Mankhurd on Wednesday, Rane said no one would be allowed to disrespect Hindu gods and goddesses during the festival.
The warning comes after tensions erupted on Sunday night when an idol of Goddess Durga was allegedly desecrated in Mankhurd, sparking a clash between two groups.
Rane described the ruling Mahayuti as a “Hindutvawadi government” elected with the support of Hindu votes, asserting that “people wearing the gol topi did not vote for it.” He cautioned against any attempts to disrupt harmony, saying, “Celebrate your festivals peacefully, and we will celebrate ours. Don’t look at us sideways. We will not tolerate anyone trying to disturb Mumbai’s atmosphere.”
The minister added that those seeking permission to celebrate festivals can easily approach the government and receive approvals without delay. He also joined devotees in a ‘maha aarti’ during the event.
Earlier, Rane had claimed that garba events during Navratri are turning into “epicentres” of “love jihad” and supported the Vishwa Hindu Parishad’s advisory urging organisers to thoroughly verify the identity of participants.
