Maharashtra: CM Fadnavis Condemns ‘Deliberate’ Violence in Nashik, Promises Strict Action Against Rioters
Nashik, 19th April 2025: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has strongly condemned the recent violence that erupted during the demolition of an unauthorised religious structure in Nashik, describing the unrest as a deliberate attempt to incite riots. Speaking to the media, Fadnavis confirmed that the local community had initially cooperated with police to remove encroachments following a court order, but a section of people deliberately instigated stone-pelting and violence against law enforcement officials.
“The attempt to create riots in Nashik was deliberate. After the court’s decision, locals themselves informed police about removing encroachments and had even started the process. However, some groups consciously resorted to stone-pelting and incited violence. Strict action is being taken against those responsible,” Fadnavis said.
The violence broke out near Nagji Chowk and Usmani Chowk late Tuesday night, resulting in injuries to several police personnel and extensive damage to vehicles and public property. Police responded with force to control the situation, registering cases against over 50 individuals for offences including assault on government employees, rioting, and possession of weapons. So far, 31 suspects have been arrested, with courts ordering police custody for 30 of them until April 19.
Following the unrest, authorities deployed heavy security to maintain peace in the area, which currently remains calm. Fadnavis assured that the investigation would continue until all perpetrators are brought to justice and warned that properties of rioters could be seized to recover damages caused during the violence.
The Chief Minister also dismissed allegations against the police, stating that law enforcement acted appropriately amid a rapidly escalating situation. He emphasised that social media users who spread hate and incite violence would face similar consequences as the rioters themselves.
This incident in Nashik highlights ongoing tensions surrounding unauthorised religious structures and the challenges faced by authorities in enforcing court orders while maintaining law and order. Fadnavis’s firm stance signals the government’s zero-tolerance approach to communal violence and its commitment to upholding peace in the state.
