Days after a clash between the Hindu and Muslim communities broke out in Mumbai’s Mira Road, bulldozers razed illegal structures and encroachments in the Naya Nagar area on Tuesday.

“Illegal structures and encroachments were razed by bulldozers in the Naya Nagar area of Mira Road, where Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha celebrations were stone-pelted. After instructions from the Maharashtra government, action is being taken by the Municipal Corporation with the help of the police,” the Maharashtra government said, as reported by ANI.

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A huge contingent of police personnel, including a Rapid Action Force (RAF) team, was deployed in the area to avoid any untoward incident. Notably, the action by the Mira Bhayandar Municipal Corporation to demolish the “illegal” roadside stalls came a day after Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who holds the Home portfolio, warned of strict action against rioters, as per PTI.

Videos of the razing of the stalls went viral on social media after a clash broke out on Sunday night, January 21. Members of two communities clashed during a vehicle rally organized in Naya Nagar, a Muslim-dominated locality in Thane district neighbouring Mumbai, a day ahead of the consecration of Lord Ram’s idol in the Ayodhya temple.

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A mob, armed with iron rods, sticks, and bats, shouted religious slogans and assaulted the man whose car was part of the procession comprising three vehicles and 10 two-wheelers, the police had said.

The police have registered a case of attempted murder against 50-60 individuals, with 13 of them being taken into custody, according to a police official.

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Meanwhile, BJP MLA Nitesh Rane visited Naya Nagar on Tuesday and during his interaction with reporters slammed the Mira Bhayandar Vasai Virar (MBVV) Police for their alleged “inaction” in controlling communal disturbances on Sunday night.

Rane claimed that the lack of action by the police has tarnished the image of Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis and the state government.

Police should have handled the situation promptly, he said, adding that “Hindus need not fear as the state Home Minister Fadnavis is a staunch Hindutvavadi.” Fadnavis is closely monitoring the situation, Rane added.

Furthermore, Rane asserted that the issue would be raised in the upcoming legislative session, highlighting the reported extreme fear among members of the Hindu community in Naya Nagar, alleging conversions of girls. He demanded the removal of police barricades in the locality within 24 hours, threatening to take action if not complied with.

In response to the incidents, local police issued a late-night warning to administrators and members of WhatsApp groups, cautioning against sending or forwarding objectionable videos and photos, or using status updates that may hurt the sentiments of any caste or community.

(With inputs from agencies)