Image Credit: X account @CMOMaharashtra
Physical Clash at Maharashtra Assembly Spurs FIRs
A heated clash broke out between supporters of BJP MLA Gopichand Padalkar and NCP‑Sharad Pawar faction MLA Jitendra Awhad at the Maharashtra Vidhan Bhavan on Thursday. What began as a verbal altercation during the legislative session quickly escalated into a scuffle in the lobby area. Videos of the incident went viral, showing party workers pushing and shouting at each other, prompting police intervention and political fallout.
Police Register FIR, Arrests Made
Following the incident, Mumbai Police registered a First Information Report at the Marine Drive Police Station. Charges include rioting, unlawful assembly, and preventing public servants from discharging duties. Two political workers — Nitin Deshmukh from NCP‑SP and Sarjerao Takle from BJP — were arrested. Additionally, MLA Jitendra Awhad was booked for allegedly obstructing police officers trying to take Deshmukh into custody.
Overnight Protest by NCP‑SP Leaders
Late Thursday night and early Friday morning, NCP‑SP leaders and supporters gathered outside the police station demanding the release of Deshmukh. Jitendra Awhad and Rohit Pawar led the protest, accusing police of biased action and shielding BJP supporters while targeting NCP‑SP workers. Rohit Pawar also visited Azad Maidan Police Station, arguing that the arrest of Deshmukh was unjust.
Political Reactions and Allegations
Awhad claimed his supporters were beaten by BJP workers and later wrongfully arrested. He alleged death threats had been made against his team and asked why no action was taken against the alleged assaulters from the ruling party. “What precedent are we setting where elected representatives and their aides are manhandled in a legislative building?” he asked.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned the violence and urged a full investigation. Both Awhad and Padalkar later expressed regret over the clash but maintained different versions of the incident.
Further Action Expected
The police are continuing their investigation based on CCTV footage and eyewitness reports. More arrests are likely, and the Maharashtra Assembly’s Ethics Committee is expected to review the conduct of those involved. The episode has reignited concerns over rising political tensions in the state and the decorum within legislative premises.
