On October 27, communal tensions erupted in the Mira Bhayander area of Mumbai when a group belonging to the Muslim community reportedly attacked Hindu residents who were celebrating Deepawali by bursting firecrackers. The incident, captured in a viral video, reveals a group of more than a dozen individuals attacking around 10-12 Hindus with sharp weapons, resulting in serious injuries.
Videos circulating on social media depict the attackers confronting and assaulting the victims, who were celebrating the Hindu festival. Thane Police confirmed the attack, acknowledging the communal nature of the incident but have not yet provided specific details regarding the identities or actions taken against the accused.
As per a report by OpIndia, one of the victims recounted the chilling details of the attack, stating that the attackers belonged to the Muslim community. The victim reported that the conflict began when Hindus were bursting firecrackers on a public road as part of Deepawali festivities.
According to the victim’s statement, a man from the Muslim community approached him, expressing anger over the firecrackers and demanding that the celebrations stop. “He began abusing me, claiming that the firecrackers were causing him discomfort,” the victim explained.
When the victim politely asked the man to refrain from using abusive language, the situation escalated. The man, later identified by witnesses as Imran, allegedly summoned his associates, including his brother, to join him in the attack.
The victims claim that the attackers used weapons, including ice-breakers and glass bottles, to inflict injuries. Five of the injured were rushed to the hospital and discharged after treatment. In response, local Hindu residents gathered both at the site of the attack and at the Navghar Police Station, demanding strict action and chanting slogans to voice their protest.
However, reports indicate that when police arrived at the scene, the attackers had dispersed, and several of the injured Hindus were taken into custody for questioning.
One victim, speaking with local media, revealed that police were called for during the attack, but officers arrived only after the violence had ceased. He reported that while a written complaint was later filed, there has been little immediate action. Local residents have raised concerns over the perceived delay in response and are urging the authorities to take prompt measures to address communal unrest in the area.
Meanwhile, the Thane Police and the Mira Bhayander Vasai-Virar Commissionerate confirmed that a formal complaint has been registered. Further updates on the investigation are expected.
