Neighbourhood Dispute in Kalyan Turns into Marathi vs Migrant Row, Sparks Legislative Uproar

A neighbourhood clash in Kalyan’s Yogi Dham area escalated into a Marathi versus North Indian migrants’ issue, the ripples of which reached the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly in Nagpur. Police arrested Akhilesh Shukla, a contractual employee with the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), for allegedly attacking a Marathi family during the altercation.

The incident occurred at Ajmera Heights in Thane district, 50 km from Mumbai. Shukla reportedly summoned goons to attack Abhijit Deshmukh, a Marathi resident, and his family following a heated argument over lighting incense sticks. During the dispute, Shukla allegedly abused the Marathi residents, saying, “All of you Marathis are filthy people. You eat fish and mutton… You belong in slums, not in buildings like this.”

Following a complaint by resident Dheeraj Deshmukh, the Khadakpada Police registered an FIR and arrested Shukla. He has been suspended from his post as an Accounts Manager with MTDC.

 The incident sparked a political storm, with opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) leaders slamming the BJP-led MahaYuti government. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray demanded answers, saying, “How can anyone interfere in personal choices?” State Congress chief Nana Patole and NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) leader Jitendra Awhad also criticized the government, alleging a rise in such incidents over the past decade.

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar assured a thorough investigation. “This is a serious issue. A probe will be conducted,” he said.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray warned of action if Shukla was not dealt with promptly. “If the accused isn’t arrested within 24 hours, the MNS will take matters into its own hands,” he said.

 Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned the incident, emphasizing the state’s commitment to social harmony. “Migrants who respect our traditions and festivals are welcome, but acts that disrupt Maharashtra’s social fabric will not be tolerated,” he said.

Fadnavis also addressed issues of housing discrimination and dietary preferences, stating, “No one has the right to deny homes based on food choices. While vegetarianism is important to some communities, using it to discriminate is unacceptable. We will act on any complaints of such practices.” He added, “Regional pride (Marathi-asmita) is as important as national pride. We will not tolerate any attempts to harm it.”