Violence Erupts in Nashik During Demolition of Alleged Illegal Dargah; Over 20 Police Personnel Injured

Tension gripped the Kathe Galli area of Nashik’s Dwarka locality late Tuesday night after a mob attacked a Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) team attempting to demolish an allegedly illegal dargah. The incident occurred under the cover of darkness during a power outage, when a crowd began pelting stones at the officials and accompanying police personnel.

According to authorities, the attack left at least four NMC officials and over 20 police personnel injured, including two Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs). One police officer reportedly suffered a fractured leg. The violence also resulted in damage to five vehicles.

The NMC had issued a notice on April 1 declaring the structure illegal, following a court order, and had directed its voluntary removal within 15 days. With no action taken, civic officials, backed by police forces, arrived on Wednesday to carry out the demolition.

The operation was reportedly being conducted with assistance from some local clerics. However, resistance from certain groups led to the outbreak of violence. Police have since detained more than eight individuals involved in the stone-pelting.

The situation remains tense, with security tightened in the area to prevent further escalation. An investigation is underway to identify and take action against those responsible for the attack.

In an official statement, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Kiran Kumar Chavan provided key details about the violent incident that took place in Nashik late Tuesday night during a municipal demolition drive targeting an allegedly illegal dargah structure.

According to DCP Chavan, the Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) team had arrived at the site to carry out demolition work. However, a crowd gathered at the location and began protesting. Despite efforts by the dargah’s trustees and some respected local citizens to pacify the crowd, the mob turned aggressive and started pelting stones at both the officials and police personnel.

Several government vehicles were damaged during the attack. In response, police were forced to use mild force to bring the situation under control.

DCP Chavan confirmed that the situation is now completely under control and calm has been restored in the area.

A total of 31 police officers and personnel were injured in the stone-pelting. 15 individuals have been taken into police custody in connection with the violence. Police have seized 57 suspicious motorcycles from the area. Mild force was used to disperse the crowd and restore order.​