Tensions Rise in Thane Over Goat Sacrifice Dispute Ahead of Bakrid

A dispute regarding the construction of a shed and the tying of goats for sacrifice ahead of Bakrid has led to unrest in a housing society in Thane district, resulting in injuries to at least three individuals. According to police reports, violence erupted in the Mira Road suburb when members of the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal protested against the temporary shed's construction and the tying of goats for sacrifice. Around 12:50 AM on May 26, an individual reportedly approached the group and inquired about local VHP leader Nagnath Kamble. When questioned about his identity and purpose by the protesters, he allegedly drew a knife and attempted to attack them. In the ensuing scuffle, he reportedly injured several individuals with the knife, who are said to be affiliated with the VHP. An FIR was filed based on a complaint by Harsh Singh, who was also injured in the incident. The accused was later apprehended and handed over to the authorities.

The situation intensified during the protest when VHP and Bajrang Dal activists gathered at the society's gate and recited the Hanuman Chalisa. They demanded strict action against the individuals who had injured the protesters. Police intervened to stop some demonstrators who allegedly attempted to bring a pig into the society premises, claiming they were performing "Varah Puja" in opposition to the goats being kept for sacrifice. However, it is important to note that "Varah Puja" is primarily celebrated on Varah Jayanti, which marks the birth anniversary of Lord Vishnu's Varah avatar, occurring this year on September 12. Senior police officials, including the divisional police commissioner, arrived at the scene to de-escalate tensions and mediate between the two groups.

Political responses to the incident quickly surfaced. BJP MLA Sanjay Upadhyay from Borivali issued a warning against illegal slaughter and made controversial remarks linking the protests to the presence of pigs in housing societies. He noted that a Muslim family residing in Sumer Heights in Borivali had brought six goats, leading to opposition from the entire society. Similar incidents have been reported in Mira Road. Upadhyay stated that if the minority community does not adhere to the Constitution and follows Sharia law, they would respond to goats with pigs.