Maharashtra: Scrap Shop Demolished After ‘Pakistan Zindabad’ Slogans Raised During IND vs PAK Match
Maharashtra: Scrap Shop Demolished After ‘Pakistan Zindabad’ Slogans Raised During IND vs PAK Match
MALVAN – A 15-year-old boy was detained, his parents arrested, and their scrap shop demolished by authorities in Maharashtra’s Sindhudurg district after allegations surfaced that the boy raised “anti-national” slogans during the India-Pakistan cricket match last Sunday.
Complaint Sparks Police Action
According to Sindhudurg Superintendent of Police Saurabh Agrawal, a passerby claimed to have heard the boy chanting slogans around 9:30 PM while the match was ongoing. The claim led to a confrontation between the boy’s family and neighbors, escalating into a dispute that prompted police intervention.
Based on a local resident’s complaint, an FIR was registered, and the minor was sent to an observation home. His parents were arrested on Sunday and placed in judicial custody under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) sections 196 (promoting enmity between different groups), 197 (assertions prejudicial to national integration), and 3(5) (acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention).
Demolition of Family’s Scrap Shop
Following the arrests, a motorcycle rally was conducted by locals demanding further action against the family, who had migrated from Uttar Pradesh to Malvan 15 years ago.
Shortly after, the Malvan municipal council demolished their scrap shop, citing a lack of proper permits. In the process, a family-owned vehicle was also damaged.
Political Reactions and Social Media Statements
Shiv Sena MLA Nilesh Rane, son of former Union Minister Narayan Rane, took to social media, alleging that the “scrap dealer made anti-India comments.” He vowed to have the family removed from the district and thanked local authorities for their swift action, sharing images of the demolition.
The incident has sparked debate over legal action, freedom of speech, and the role of local authorities in such cases. Further developments in the investigation are awaited.
