Violence Erupts in Bhiwandi Following Alleged Attack on Former Mayor
Bhiwandi witnessed a major political confrontation on Sunday evening. The incident involved supporters of former mayor Vilas R Patil and BJP MLA Mahesh Chougule. Police had to resort to a lathi-charge to bring the situation under control.
Alleged Attack Sparks Immediate Protests
Vilas Patil, the victorious candidate from Konark Vikas Aghadi, claimed he faced a life-threatening attack at his bungalow. He directly accused Meet Chougule, son of BJP MLA Mahesh Chougule, and his supporters of carrying out the assault. Patil described the attack as targeted and premeditated.
According to Patil and his supporters, the violence stemmed from political rivalry. Meet Chougule had contested the recent election but was defeated by Patil's son. This electoral defeat allegedly triggered the confrontation.
Following the incident, Patil's supporters gathered at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Chowk. They staged a protest by sitting on the road, demanding strict action against Meet Chougule. The protest quickly escalated tensions in the area.
BJP MLA Counters with Different Version
BJP MLA Mahesh Chougule strongly denied all allegations against his son. He presented a completely different account of events. Chougule claimed that supporters of Vilas Patil were the first to initiate violence.
According to the BJP MLA, Patil's supporters attacked his office and engaged in stone-pelting. Chougule stated that this initial aggression led to clashes between supporters of both sides. He maintained that the violence escalated from there.
Several supporters from both political camps sustained injuries during the scuffle. The exact number of injured persons remains unclear as investigations continue.
Police Intervention and Lathi-Charge
As tensions rose outside the BJP MLA's office, police forces intervened decisively. Officers resorted to a lathi-charge to disperse Vilas Patil's supporters from the area. The police action aimed to prevent further escalation of violence.
DCP Shashikant Borate confirmed that clashes occurred between supporters of both parties. He stated that police used lathi-charge as a necessary measure to bring the situation under control. Borate emphasized that the situation is now stable.
Police began recording complaints from both sides late into Sunday night. Authorities confirmed that a thorough investigation is currently underway. The investigation will examine all aspects of the violent confrontation.
Ongoing Investigation and Political Fallout
The incident has exposed deep political divisions in Bhiwandi. Both sides continue to blame each other for initiating the violence. Political observers note that this clash reflects broader tensions following recent elections.
Local residents expressed concern about the deteriorating law and order situation. Many called for immediate action against those responsible for the violence. Community leaders urged political parties to maintain peace and avoid further confrontations.
Police authorities assured the public that they are monitoring the situation closely. Additional security measures have been implemented in sensitive areas. The investigation continues as authorities gather evidence from multiple sources.
