Several vehicles and shops of Muslims were torched by miscreants after a peaceful rally to mark Tipu Sultan Jayanti. SP leader Abu Asim Azmi said that despite clear evidence, police failed to act against culprits.
Team Clarion
BULDHANA – The communal violence in Buldhana during the Tipu Sultan Jayanti celebrations has sparked strong reactions from political and religious leaders, with demands for justice and transparency in the ongoing investigation. Maharashtra Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Abu Asim Azmi has accused the police of taking unilateral actions against Muslims, while those responsible for the violence remain free.
Azmi condemned the police response to the violence that erupted after a peaceful rally to mark Tipu Sultan Jayanti. The rally, organised with prior permission from the Buldhana police, concluded peacefully in the afternoon. However, tensions flared up later in the day when some youths burst fireworks at Shivaji Chowk, leading to objections from certain individuals. The situation escalated when vehicles and shops owned by Muslims were set on fire. Azmi claims that despite the clear evidence, the police failed to act against those responsible.
“The police are arresting Muslims indiscriminately by raiding their homes, even though the procession was peaceful. The violence occurred in the evening, but no action was taken against those who started the fire. Instead, the police entered Muslim homes at night and tortured women,” said Azmi. He also highlighted a disturbing report from a complainant, who was allegedly told by DySP Sudhir that no FIR would be registered against known persons involved in the violence, even though it occurred in front of the police.
Azmi further pointed out the apparent bias in the investigation, stating that while 27 Muslim youths were named as accused, only six non-Muslim youths were mentioned, suggesting an unequal approach to justice.
Azmi has called for a thorough, transparent investigation into the violence. He urged the Maharashtra Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister to ensure that the real culprits are held accountable and that the Muslim victims of the violence receive compensation for their losses.
“The real culprits must be punished, and the innocent Muslims who are being wrongfully targeted should be released immediately. We demand a fair investigation, free from bias,” he asserted.
In addition to Azmi’s statements, a delegation from Jamiat Ulema Maharashtra, led by Mufti Muhammad Anisuddin Ashrafi, visited the affected area in Buldhana. The delegation met with victims, offering support and condolences, and engaged with local authorities at the Dhar police station to address the situation.
The delegation stressed on the importance of a balanced approach, urging the police to hear complaints from both sides and take action against those who instigated the violence. “Complaints should be registered from both communities, and peace must be restored in the area,” Mufti Ashrafi said.
Jamiat’s representatives expressed their concern over the unilateral nature of the police complaints and called for steps to ensure that justice is not skewed against the Muslim community. The delegation also underscored the need for communal harmony and peace, emphasising that such incidents should not be allowed to escalate further.
As the investigation continues, the demand for impartiality and fairness in handling the case is growing louder. Leaders from both political and religious circles are calling for a transparent process that ensures the real culprits face justice, while innocent individuals are not wrongfully persecuted.
The Buldhana violence serves as a reminder of the delicate nature of communal relations in India, and the importance of ensuring that justice is served without bias or prejudice.
