Visuals from the attack launched by Islamists on Hindu family (Image Source: OpIndia)
A case highlighting yet another attack on Hindus living in a Muslim locality has been reported from Sangli in Maharashtra. The Hindu family residing in residing in the area, fell victim to a brutal assault allegedly perpetrated by a Muslim mob near Pakiza Masjid, highlighting simmering tensions over a land dispute. The primary accused, identified as Rafiq Mullah, led the attack, which left the family traumatized and injured. Police intervention followed a complaint filed by the victim’s family, detailing relentless harassment and violence inflicted by the accused.
On March 25th, the Kudale family endured a harrowing ordeal as they were besieged by Rafiq Mullah and his associates, including Salim Mullah, Yasin Mullah, Sayed Mullah, Sameer Mullah, Sayida Mullah, Heena, and Sharmin Mullah. The assailants subjected the family to physical assault, molestation of women, and threats, compelling the family to abandon their ancestral home near Pakiza Masjid.
The accused individuals are confronting an array of charges under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and relevant statutes. These include sections 143 (unlawful assembly), 147 (rioting), 148 (rioting, armed with deadly weapon), 307 (attempt to murder), 149 (unlawful assembly with common intent), 337 (causing hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others), 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace), and 506 (criminal intimidation). Additionally, provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, as well as the Maharashtra Police Act, have been invoked.
Two arrests have been made, while efforts are underway to apprehend the remaining suspects.
Jagdish Kudale, the complainant, recounted persistent harassment by Rafiq Mullah, who sought to coerce the family into vacating their property. Despite attempts to erect a compound wall for safety, the family faced a violent onslaught on March 17th, orchestrated by Rafiq and his accomplices. Threats of rape and murder were hurled at the family, with several members sustaining severe injuries.
Local Hindu activists rallied in support of the victim family, condemning the religiously motivated aggression and demanding swift justice. Nitin Shinde, a prominent activist, decried the intimidation tactics employed by the Muslim community and urged authorities to uphold law and order. He cautioned against extending legal aid to Rafiq Mullah, emphasizing solidarity within the Hindu community.
Authorities, while acknowledging the sensitivity of the case, confirmed the arrest of two suspects and assured continued efforts to apprehend the remaining perpetrators. Sangli Police refrained from divulging further details but affirmed their commitment to impartial investigation and prosecution.
The incident underscores the deep-rooted tensions simmering over land disputes and communal differences in Sangli. As investigations continue, the focus remains on delivering justice to the victimized family and upholding the principles of law and order. The case serves as a stark reminder of the need for communal harmony and tolerance in society, urging collective efforts to combat religiously motivated violence.
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