Mira Road: Prakash Ambedkar Condemns "Bulldozer Politics"

In the aftermath of the violence that marred a Ram Temple rally in Mira Road near Mumbai, the Eknath Shinde-led government took action on Tuesday, demolishing “illegal structures and encroachments” in the area. The move by the Mira Bhaindar Municipal Corporation came just two days after clashes erupted during a procession.

The government justified its actions, citing the need to address illegal shops and houses where stones were allegedly pelted at the Hindu procession on Monday. Maharashtra”s deputy chief minister, Devendra Fadnavis, had earlier issued a stern warning of strict action against rioters.

However, the bulldozer-driven demolition has drawn criticism from Prakash Ambedkar, former MP and president of the Vanchit Bahujan Aaghadi political party. Ambedkar expressed his disapproval, stating, “The Mira Road bulldozer politics orchestrated by Eknath Shinde and the BJP-led Maharashtra government is petty, to say the least. It is designed to escalate oppression and perpetuate an environment of fear and helplessness among the minorities.”

Ambedkar”s critique goes beyond the physical demolition, as he argues, “If the structures were indeed illegal, then due process, rule of law, and justice have to be followed. It was not just the shops and houses that are being razed down but the Constitution as well.”

In response the tensions prevail in the area, AIMIM national spokesperson and former MLA Waris Pathan today met with the residents and social workers of Mira Road, and together a representation gave a memorandum to Maharashtra DGP Rashmi Shukla. The representation requested that the tensions that have been going on in Mira Road for the last three days should be stopped immediately.

They also demanded FIR against all the leaders who are giving threats and instigating through social media.

On Tuesday, several videos emerged on social media which showed establishments and vehicles belonging to Muslims being attacked in the area.

Meanwhile, the police has warned social media users and WhatsApp group admins sharing against content that can cause communal issues.