Row Over Social Media Posts On Aurangzeb, Tipu Sultan In Maharashtra’s Kolhapur

According to the reports, some rightwing outfits have staged a massive protest in the state’s Kolhapur. They have been protesting over social media posts on Aurangzeb and Tipu Sultan, which they claim are “constroversial”.

The outfits have called for shutdown in Kolhapur and alleged that the posts were intended to glorify the two rulers.

The news agency PTI said prohibitory orders have been issued till June 19 in Kolhapur restricting the?assembly of five or more persons.

It also said the police has sent a proposal to suspend internet services in Kolhapur from Wednesday afternoon till Thursday evening, or as per the situation demands.?

The report said the protest by the outfits turned violent when the protesters ransacked some shops and vehicles at Kolhapur's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Chowk, demanding action against those men.

“The police had to resort to lathicharge to disperse the protesters, officials said. There were reports of clashes between two groups from other parts of the town as well,” it stated.

"Some organisations had called for a Kolhapur bandh and the members of these outfits gathered at Shivaji Chowk today. Some people also started throwing stones, forcing police to use force against these people to disperse them," the report quoted a senior police official as having said.

The report mentioned that the state’s CM Eknath Shinde has appealed for calm.

"Investigation is underway and action will be taken against those found guilty," CM Shinde was quoted as having said.?

It also quoted Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis appealing public to maintain calm.

"We will find those responsible for maligning the image of Maharashtra and causing law and order problems. The situation is under control. I urge people not to take law in their hands," says Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis on Kolhapur clashes.

"There is no forgiveness in Maharashtra for those who praise Aurangzeb. Police are also taking action. At the same time, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that peace is maintained," Fadnavis was quoted as having said.

Meanwhile, the report said the security has been intensified in the city to avoid any untoward incident.
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