A recent incident in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, has sparked controversy, with a mob attempting to forcefully enter a mosque during the Shimga festival. The police have denied claims of a forced entry, stating that the incident was part of an old tradition. However, a case has been registered against those who raised slogans.

Locals have confirmed that the tradition involves raising a large piece of wood, but ramming the mosque gates was unprecedented. The situation briefly escalated, with a heated exchange between both sides. After the wooden structure struck the gates, mosque authorities pushed them back multiple times. The police intervened, and an FIR was lodged under Section 135 of the Maharashtra Police Act for unlawful assembly over alleged sloganeering.

The incident has sparked outrage on social media, with many calling for action against those responsible. Maharashtra minister and Shiv Sena leader Nitesh Rane dismissed reports of communal disturbance, claiming the incident was exaggerated. However, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi shared a video of the incident, questioning whether proper legal action would be taken ¹.