SUV of NCP MLA Jitendra Awhad Attacked Over Comments on Sambhaji Chhatrapati; Six Charged

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) SP MLA Jitendra Awhad's vehicle was attacked on Thursday by a group of individuals. The incident occurred on P D'Mello Road in south Mumbai as he was heading towards Thane via the Eastern Freeway from the CSMT area, according to police reports.

The attackers, numbering three to four, struck the rear of Awhad's SUV with sticks and threw a stone. They also shouted slogans supporting former Rajya Sabha MP Sambhaji Chhatrapati before fleeing the scene. A case has been filed against six individuals for charges including attempted murder and unlawful assembly.

Attack Details and Legal Actions

According to the First Information Report (FIR), Swaraj Sanghatana functionary Ankush Kadam and five to six supporters were involved in the attack. The FIR states that they intended to kill Awhad. Dhananjay Jadhav, Swaraj Sanghatana secretary, claimed responsibility for the assault, prompting calls for action against him and four others.

A police official from Dongri station confirmed that Kadam, Jadhav, and four others have been booked. Investigations into the incident are ongoing. In response to the attack, some NCP SP activists blocked the Eastern Express Highway in Thane during the evening. Among those detained was NCP SP city unit chief Suhas Desai. The blockade was lifted shortly after.

Background of the Conflict

Earlier, Awhad had criticised Sambhaji Chhatrapati over violence at Vishalgad fort in Kolhapur last month during an anti-encroachment drive. He mentioned that Kolhapur MP Shahu Chhatrapati, Sambhaji's father, disapproved of the violence. "If Sambhaji Chhatrapati is a descendant by birth, I am a descendant by ideology," Awhad remarked.

The violence erupted on July 14 when right-wing groups led by Sambhaji Chhatrapati were stopped at the fort's base for violating prohibitory orders. The opposition has alleged that the anti-encroachment drive targeted a specific community.

Political Reactions

Awhad also commented on Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's claim of meeting BJP central leaders in Delhi while in disguise. "You are after power to such an extent that you feel the need to change your appearance and name. This is mockery of national security," Awhad said.

Furthermore, Awhad criticised recent BJP statements against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. He stated that Gandhi's caste is "the country and its soil," emphasising his commitment to national interests.

The situation remains tense as investigations continue and political tensions rise following these events. Authorities are working to ensure justice is served while maintaining public order.